A method for caching virtual memory paging requests and disk input/output requests utilizes a portion of the video memory as a location for paged memory as well as an alternative location for a disk cache system; the disk cache system is also capable of placing compressed data in a cache buffer. The portion of the video memory employed is off screen memory (OSM), access to which is controlled to make OSM available for paging or caching requirements. System operators may be monitored on a continuing basis to provide for a dynamic allocation of QSM.