In Computing, What is a Buffer?
A computer buffer is an area of memory used for temporary storage of data when a program or hardware device needs an uninterrupted flow of information. Buffers are typically created in Random Access Memory (RAM) rather than on the hard disk, as fetching data from RAM is faster than retrieving it from the platter technology used in conventional hard drives. Some hardware devices come with their own on-board RAM or buffer, as in the case of printers. Printers designed for small workloads generally have smaller buffers, while work horse models have greater amounts of RAM. When clicking a button to print a job, the computer sends the data to the printer RAM or buffer, freeing your system RAM to handle other tasks. This allows print jobs to run in the background, referred to as spooling. A printer buffer prints jobs on a first-come, first served basis, capable of maintaining a cue, especially important in a networked environment. Another example of buffer use is in streaming online multimed
