Reply To: OCU C)HT C Discussion Lesson 04

The two key types of memory used in your computer are Read-Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). You can get an idea of the function of each type of memory by its name. ROM, or Read-Only Memory, is just that, read-only. It is a non-volatile memory, which means that the data is kept even when the computer is powered down. ROM contains important instructions that help the computer start up, such as those found in the BIOS or firmware. ROM is not meant to be changed by the user. RAM, or Random Access Memory, as the name implies, is more like a temporary workspace. It will store the things your computer is using right now, but this memory is volatile, meaning it will be wiped clean when you shut down. In summary, ROM is a permanent memory and helps your computer boot up, whereas RAM is temporary and helps the computer run smoothly. Though they work in different ways, both are equally important.