Classification of computer memory: Primary Memory & Secondary Memory

Classification of computer memory: 

The instructions and data are stored in memory unit of the computer system are divided into following main groups:

1. Main or Primary memory,
2. Secondary memory.

Primary Memory: 

Primary memory is the main area in a computer in which data is stored for quick access by the computer’s processor. 

Primary memory is divided into two parts.

• RAM (random access memory)
• ROM (read only memory)

Secondary Memory: 

Secondary memory is where programs and data are kept on a long time basis. It is cheaper from of memory and slower than main or primary memory. It is non-volatile and cannot access data directly by the computer processor. It is the external memory of the computer system. 

Example: hard disk drive, floppy disk, optical disk/ CD-ROM.

Figure: Classification of computer memory