An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for cache synchronization within a multi-tier system having multiple client-server relationships. The apparatus includes a pre-synchronization module, a locking module, and a synchronization module. The pre-synchronization module receives a pre-synchronization call from an upstream node coupled to a first downstream node. The locking module locks a first cache coupled to the first downstream node in response to a synchronization call from the upstream node. The synchronization module synchronizes source data on the upstream node with cached data on the first cache. The apparatus also may include a post-synchronization module to perform any necessary cleanup activities. Advantageously, the apparatus, system, and method reduce the likelihood of a system deadlock due to premature locking of the first downstream cache, which prevents a subsequent downstream cache from synchronizing with the first cache.