What does volatile storage mean

Non-volatile memory is computer memory that can retain the stored information even when not powered. Examples of non-volatile memory include read-only memory see ROM , flash memory, most types of magnetic computer storage devices e. Skip to main content. Search for:. Volatile and Non-Volatile Computer Memory Computer Memory In computing, memory refers to the devices used to store information for use in a computer.

Solid-state drives are one of the latest forms of non-volatile memory. RAM is typically used as a primary storage or main memory in computer systems. Since the primary storage demands extreme speed, it mainly uses volatile memory.

Due to the volatile nature of RAM, users often need to save their work to a nonvolatile permanent medium, such as a hard drive, in order to avoid data loss. There are two kinds of volatile RAM: dynamic and static.

Even though both types need continuous electrical current for proper functioning, there are some important differences as well. DRAM stores each bit of information in a different capacitor within the integrated circuit.

DRAM chips need just one single capacitor and one transistor to store each bit of information. This makes it space efficient and inexpensive. Its disadvantage is its high price. SRAM does not need continuous electrical refreshes, but it still requires constant current to sustain the difference in voltage. When idle, the power requirements of static RAM are low. Every single bit in a static RAM chip needs a cell of six transistors, whereas dynamic RAM requires only one capacitor and one transistor.

SRAM is most commonly used in networking devices, like switches, routers, cable modems, etc. The physical structure and electronic properties of volatile memory makes it faster compared to electro-mechanical storage devices such as hard drives, which makes it an ideal candidate as the computer's main form of memory.

For this reason, we recommend saving your documents or other data to a non-volatile storage medium, such as a hard drive , SSD , or USB stick. Volatile memory is much faster than non-volatile memory. However, it is also more expensive. Computers use volatile and non-volatile memory to help balance cost with performance.

As faster technologies like NVMe become cheaper, it's possible in the future that computers may only use non-volatile memory.