use outputcache or session variable

Im using asp.net mvc 3开发者_运维问答.

Im implementing a points system similar to SO. I want to show the users points on every page. should i store this in a session variable?

or can i use outputcache on a partial action to show it on every page? i dont want to make a dbcall just for this on every page.

im a little reluctan with session variable, i hear too many mixed comments about them

thanks

I wouldn't store it in session.

If the user does something that affects their points, you'll have to update the session each time. Use session for things that change rarely during a user's time on your website (like their username, preferences, etc).

Don't forget, what if someone "upvotes" something the user has done - how would you know about this unless you call the db?

I would use regular Cache, possibly with a SqlCacheDependency on the table which contains the user rep, so when it changes it invalidates the cached data.