Memory and Storage
Computers use two very different kinds of "memory": one for working on tasks right now, and one for keeping files long-term.
What You'll Learn
- The difference between RAM and storage
- Why RAM is temporary
- Why storage is permanent
RAM: Short-Term Memory
RAM, or Random Access Memory, holds whatever the computer is actively working on. It's extremely fast, but it only holds data while the computer is powered on -- everything in RAM is cleared the moment the power is off.
Storage: Long-Term Memory
Storage devices, like hard drives (HDDs) and solid state drives (SSDs), keep files even when the computer is turned off. This is where your documents, photos, and installed programs actually live between sessions.
Example
If you're editing a document and the power suddenly goes out, unsaved changes in RAM are lost. But once you save the file, it moves to storage and stays there even after you shut the computer down.
Key Concepts
Key Takeaways
- RAM temporarily holds what a computer is actively working on
- Storage (like an SSD or hard drive) keeps files permanently
- Turning off a computer clears RAM but not storage
Knowledge Check
What happens to the data in RAM when a computer is turned off?