Let us explain and define RAM (Random Access Memory) in simple, novice-friendly terms. 🙂
What’s RAM Again?
Imagine RAM as a super-fast workspace in your computer. It’s where your computer keeps the programs and data it’s currently using. Think of it like a desk: the bigger the desk, the more papers and coffee cups (apps and files) you can have open.
Why Can’t We Just Have Infinite RAM?
Ah, the dream! But here’s the catch: RAM is expensive, like that overpriced artisan coffee. Plus, your computer can only handle so many espresso shots before it doesn’t know whether it’s coming or going.
Speed and Size: The Dynamic Duo
Small amount of RAM is like trying to work on a very small bench. You can do, but you need to stop, remove the stuff you don’t really need at the moment (read/write to SSD), to make room for what you really really need. It takes time, it’s a hassle. More RAM (larger size) lets you open fifty browser tabs with cat-pics, without your computer having to use the 100 times slower SSD to save the tabs you’re not viewing at the moment (they’ll all have their space in RAM).
Of course, if your RAM is too slow, it’ll be like being old and exhausted – you’ll work slower, even if you have the largest workbench in the world. Speed matters too!
DDR What Now?
You might hear about DDR (Double Data Rate) followed by some number. It’s like RAM’s model number – DDR5 is newer and faster than DDR4, for instance. It’s like going from a dial-up modem to fiber-optic internet – both get you online, but one does it while you’re still young.
Does More RAM Equal a Faster Computer?
Yes and no. Adding RAM to a sluggish computer is like clearing a cluttered desk: it helps you work more efficiently. But if your CPU is the equivalent of a lazy cat sleeping on your keyboard, more RAM won’t make much difference.
Besides, once you’ve got enough RAM to store all the loaded programs you’re using, having any more won’t make any difference. Diminishing returns, just like with cache memory. Past a certain point, you’ll just notice the extra costs of more, higher-capacity RAM modules, without any improvement in performance.
So, What’s the Deal with RAM?
RAM is temporary. Turn off your computer, and poof! Everything in RAM vanishes like your ambition on a Monday morning. That’s why we have hard drives and SSDs – the filing cabinets of the computer world.
Appendix
Yes, “RAM memory” is a pleonasm.
No, increasing your computer’s RAM capacity won’t help with your website (server’s) performance – that’s a different computer.
Tech. support folks know that there are no stupid questions.