Persistent storage

This is a basic concept in computer science

Persistent storage refers to non-volatile storage. Persistent storage is needed to store data in a non-volatile device during and after the running of a program. Be careful to clearly understand persistent storage is required not only when your computer is turned off, but also when data needs to be stored due to the end of a computer process or lack of systems resources. Classically, persistent storage when the system does not have enough RAM and needs to store data on an internal disk.

To be specific persistent storage is needed when:

1. the system is powered off
2. another process requires volatile memory
3. there is a need to store data during and after the running of a program

Other resources

• This is an excellent PDF by the Dartford Grammar School Computer Science Department
• A excellent resource by the BBC to understand volatile and non-volatile storage

Do you understand this topic?

• Identify the need for persistent storage

Do you have an advanced understanding about this topic?

• Is a disk-based swap file the same thing as persistent storage?

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. Recognize and state briefly a distinguishing fact or feature.