Computer Memory

Secondary Memory

Secondary memory is used for to refer to non-volatile memory - data is retained even after the power is off. Is is more permanent compared to Main Memory.

We usually say Main Memory, to refer to the non-permanent storage of data, and Secondary Storage for the permanent storage of data.

Secondary Memory \neq Non-volatile Memory

While all forms of secondary memory as non-volatile (due to the nature of it required to be persistent), not all non-volatile memory is secondary (ex: ROM).

Some Secondary Memory Forms

• Hard Disk
• SSD
• Flash Memory