Internal Memory ( RAM, ROM and Cache )
RAM is a fast temporary type of memory in which programs, applications and data are stored. Here are some examples of what's stored in RAM:
- the operating system
- applications
- the graphical user interface (GUI)
If a computer loses power, all data stored in its RAM is lost.
- the operating system
- applications
- the graphical user interface (GUI)
If a computer loses power, all data stored in its RAM is lost.
ROM is memory that cannot be changed by a program or user. ROM retains its memory even after the computer is turned off. For example, ROM stores the instructions for the computer to start up when it is turned on again.
"Cache" is a specialized form of computer memory. In the case of Internet, "cache" is commonly used in the context of "browser cache". Cache is designed to speed up the computer by prioritizing its contents for quick access.
How it works: cache holds copies of recently accessed data such as a web page and pictures on web pages. It keeps this data ready to "swap" onto your screen within fractions of a second. So, instead of requiring your computer to go to the original web page and photos in Denmark, the cache simply offers you the lastest copy from your own hard drive.
This caching-and-swapping speeds up page wieving because the next time you request that page, it is accessed from the cache on your computer instead of from the distant Web server.