computer-architecture memory

Definition

Memory

Memory is a hardware component that stores information so that it can be read or written later.

In a computer system, memory stores instructions and data.

Different kinds of memory differ in speed, size, and purpose, for example registers, caches, and main memory.

Hierarchy

In a computer system, memory is usually organised as a hierarchy. Closer to the processor, memory is smaller and faster. Further away, it is larger and slower.