When we talk about what an operating system (OS) does for memory management, we can focus on a few important tasks:
The OS gives out memory to programs when they need it and takes it back when they're done. For instance, if an app needs some memory, it asks the OS. The OS then finds some free memory and hands it over.
Virtual memory is like using part of your computer’s hard drive to act like extra RAM (the short-term memory of a computer). This helps run bigger apps. The OS can move parts of the memory in and out of real RAM, managing what’s stored and making sure everything runs smoothly.
The OS keeps memory safe so that one program can’t mess with another program’s memory. It does this with tools like page tables, which help translate the memory addresses that programs use into the addresses in physical memory.
To keep everything running fast, the OS tries to reduce waste in memory. It uses a method called compaction to organize memory better. This means putting free spaces together so that there’s enough room for larger needs.
In short, when the operating system manages memory well, it helps everything run faster and keeps the system stable and secure. This allows programs to work together smoothly and effectively.
When we talk about what an operating system (OS) does for memory management, we can focus on a few important tasks:
The OS gives out memory to programs when they need it and takes it back when they're done. For instance, if an app needs some memory, it asks the OS. The OS then finds some free memory and hands it over.
Virtual memory is like using part of your computer’s hard drive to act like extra RAM (the short-term memory of a computer). This helps run bigger apps. The OS can move parts of the memory in and out of real RAM, managing what’s stored and making sure everything runs smoothly.
The OS keeps memory safe so that one program can’t mess with another program’s memory. It does this with tools like page tables, which help translate the memory addresses that programs use into the addresses in physical memory.
To keep everything running fast, the OS tries to reduce waste in memory. It uses a method called compaction to organize memory better. This means putting free spaces together so that there’s enough room for larger needs.
In short, when the operating system manages memory well, it helps everything run faster and keeps the system stable and secure. This allows programs to work together smoothly and effectively.