Virtual memory allows an operating system to efficiently use physical memory (RAM) in multi-tasking. Programs are assigned blocks or "pages" of memory and tricked into thinking they are using a whole part of memory. In reality, the memory was broken down into smaller pieces each given an address, and the program is assigned memory addresses by the operating system. These addresses to locations of memory are what make up a virtual memory system.
The virtual memory system is what allows the computer to appropriately use the short-term RAM to pull and execute files from the long-term storage of the hard drive. Virtual memory allocates more memory addresses, or pages, than the computer's RAM can handle, assuming not every program will run at one time. In fact, it can take only a few running programs to overtax virtual memory and RAM on a computer.
few good analogies.
- Like Phone screen.
- Desk with pages. desk manager.
The virtual memory system is what allows the computer to appropriately use the short-term RAM to pull and execute files from the long-term storage of the hard drive. Virtual memory allocates more memory addresses, or pages, than the computer's RAM can handle, assuming not every program will run at one time. In fact, it can take only a few running programs to overtax virtual memory and RAM on a computer.
few good analogies.
- Like Phone screen.
- Desk with pages. desk manager.