A method obtains at least part of a file from a dispersed storage network (DSN) memory, and stores it in a data object cache. When the file is changed, a determination is made about where to store the changed file portions: in the data object cache or in the DSN. The changed file portions, for example a new copy of the part of the file obtained from the DSN, are encoded utilizing an error coding dispersal storage function, and stored in either the data object cache, or in the DSN memory.