RAM to cache ...the jargon explained
RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY (RAM)
This is the working memory of a computer system. It stores information currently being used – such as data, results and programs. When it gets full it is moved to a separate temporary storage space known as virtual memory – that slows a computer down. When a computer is switched off RAM is lost.
READ-ONLY MEMORY (ROM)
This is the permanent memory inside your computer used to store all the important information that is required to ensure the software runs smoothly, such as program controls and system functions. It includes details that allow the computer to start up.
CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT (CPU)
The brains inside the computer that sends out signals to ensure everything is doing as it is told.
HARD DISK DRIVE (HDD)
A storage device fitted inside the computer that uses rapidly rotating disks coated with magnetic materials to hold long-term memory as the main storage hardware. The computer operating system, software and files are all stored in this component. Data can also be kept on external hard drive disks.
SOLID STATE DRIVE (SSD)
Semi-conductor chip circuits inside a computer that hold memory information. They have no mechanical components so are less likely to break down than hard disk drives but can be four times more expensive.
CACHE
This is a small part of reserved space in the computer used by the central processing unit brain to boost speeds of retrieval in software programs and for internet browsing. It is pronounced ‘cash’.
CLOUD
Rather than storing information on your computer you can send it across the internet to a data storage warehouse elsewhere – known as cloud computing.
VIRTUAL MEMORY
When a computer is doing a lot of things at once – perhaps if more than one program is running – data is moved from the Random Access Memory to a holding bay known as Virtual Memory. The process slows the computer down.