What Is The Difference Between Main Memory And Backing Storage?
Main memory is basically a physical memory which is internal to the computer. It is commonly known as RAM. The computer has to process all the data that is in the main memory. Every file and program that is accessed or executed is stored or copied in the main memory. On the other hand, a backing storage is a kind of computer storage device which has a larger capacity but whose access time is slower than that of the main memory. It is also known as bulk storage. This memory is external to the CPU. It is normally used to store data and programs that are not used currently. The examples include CD-ROM, floppy, magnetic tape or memory stick.