Differences Between RAM & ROM

RAM and ROM are both types of computer memory, but they differ in their characteristics and applications. 

RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of volatile memory. It is used to store data and program instructions that the CPU (Central Processing Unit) needs to process in real-time. RAM can read from and write to data much faster than other storage devices like hard drives or solid-state drives. When you turn off your computer, any data or program instructions stored in RAM are lost, which is why it's called volatile memory. Therefore, RAM needs to be constantly powered to maintain its contents.

When you open a program, its code and data are loaded into RAM so that the CPU can quickly access and manipulate them. The more RAM a computer has, the more programs it can run simultaneously without slowing down. RAM is also used as a buffer for temporary data storage, such as when copying or moving files.

 

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of non-volatile memory. It is used to store data that needs to be retained even when the power is off. The contents of ROM are fixed at the time of production, and they cannot be modified or changed once they are set. ROM is mainly used to store firmware, which includes all the necessary software instructions needed to operate the hardware. Examples of firmware include the BIOS on a computer motherboard and the firmware on a router. ROM is also used to store boot loaders and other low-level system utilities.

 

ROM	RAM
Non-volatile memory	Volatile memory
Contents are fixed at the time of manufacture	Contents can be read from and written to
Used to store firmware	Used to store data and program instructions that the CPU needs to process
Retains data even when power is off	Loses data when power is off

 

In summary, the main applications of RAM and ROM are:

RAM: Used to store data and program instructions that the CPU needs to process in real-time, as well as temporary data storage.

ROM: Used to store fixed firmware, boot loaders, and other low-level system utilities.