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Non-volatile and volatile are two types of classifications in computer memory. Volatile is a form of memory in computers that requires power to store information. On the other hand, the non-volatile memory will not require refreshing to preserve the memory’s values.
This blog will help you discover more about the difference between non-volatile and volatile memory, as well as how they affect the performance of computers.
On a higher level, the main distinction between volatile and non-volatile memory lies in fact:
Volatile memory saves data while the computer is running. However, it erases the data after the computer shuts down. In comparison, non-volatile memory stays on a computer long after the computer shuts down.
Volatile Memory
Volatile memory, often called “temporary” memory, is one type of memory that stores data until the device or computer is powered up but then erases the memory once the power supply is cut off or turned off.
RAM is a typical example of volatile memory.
The OS loads memory into RAM, and when there is an abrupt interruption in power or off, the entire system will be erased from the RAN. This is why we must restart the system and wait for the OS to work further within the computer.
Compared to non-volatile memory, this is extremely fast and requires the least amount of tiles to access the system’s files. Since it is the main source of memory within the system, it can have multiple functions.
It is not only the most efficient memory available in this system but also helps safeguard sensitive data as it is unavailable when the power is not running or interrupted. It can be read and written by processors and various other devices. Transfer of data isn’t simple in the volatile memory.
Non-Volatile Memory
Non-volatile memory refers to a storage device that doesn’t lose data due to power interruptions or when the power goes out. It’s a constant supply of power and doesn’t require keeping its memory contents regularly refreshed.
It is also referred to as permanent memory as it can retrieve stored data even after power has been turned off and turned back on. The most common examples of non-volatile memory include flash memory and ROM.
We use this type of memory for secondary storage or permanent storage. The majority of non-volatile memory types aren’t able to be erased by interruption of power.
This makes them appropriate for primary use. It is more expensive and less efficient because it takes longer to access the memory within the system.
Difference Between Volatile Memory And Non-Volatile Memory
- The volatile memory needs continuous power or electricity to store the data, whereas non-volatile memory does not require electrical power to preserve the data.
- We can use Volatile memory to temporarily store sensitive information or store data using RAM. Non-volatile memory is perfect for storing long-term information such as files and folders.
- Non-volatile storage comes in greater capacities than volatile storage.
- Non-volatile storage is simpler to share with other users than volatile storage.
- It is simple to create backups of non-volatile memory compared to volatile memory.
- Volatile memory is more efficient in comparison to non-volatile memory.
- Non-volatile memory has less endurance to write than that volatile memory.
- The non-volatile memory can keep information for longer periods and be carried around, while volatile memory is not specifically designed for this purpose.
- The memory of volatile can be written and read to by processors and other devices. Non-volatile has a small BIOS startup program that we can use to start the computer.
