Can you deploy an update cache without a Message Relay?

Deploying an update cache without a Message Relay is indeed possible. An update cache functions to store and distribute updates to endpoints efficiently. While the Message Relay plays a crucial role in larger or more complex network configurations by helping reduce the bandwidth consumed on the internet for update downloads, it's not a strict requirement for using an update cache.

In simpler deployment scenarios, you can configure an update cache independently of a Message Relay. This means that even if you do not have a Message Relay set up, endpoints can still retrieve updates from the update cache as long as they are properly pointed to it. The ability to deploy an update cache without needing a Message Relay provides flexibility in managing updates, especially in environments where the additional load balancing and distribution capabilities of a Message Relay are not needed or where resources are limited.

Understanding this concept is essential for effective network management and ensuring optimal performance without relying solely on infrastructure that may not be necessary for every scenario.