Memory and Storage
Working memory goes away with power. Storage can keep data.
Memory and storage (Simple Explanation)
A computer needs a place for data while it works. That short-term place is often called RAM. RAM means random access memory.
NIST describes RAM as temporary. If the power is lost, the data in RAM is lost. That is why a sudden power cut can erase unsaved work. The work was in temporary memory. It was not yet on storage.
Storage is different. Storage is the media that can keep data when the power is off. A disk. A solid-state drive. A USB stick. NIST Special Publication 800-88 Revision 2 exists because media can retain data. Organizations sanitize storage so leftover data is not left behind. Sanitization exists for that reason.
Do not mix the two words on this page.
- Memory here means the temporary working place (RAM). It needs power. It does not keep your file if power is gone.
- Storage means media that can retain data. Power-off does not, by itself, mean the data is gone.
Deleting a file on storage is not the same as sanitizing the media. SP 800-88 is about sanitization, not about the Recycle Bin.
Key Ideas
RAM is temporary: lost if power is lost. Source: NIST RAM glossary.
Storage can retain data: that is why sanitization guidance exists. Source: NIST SP 800-88 Rev. 2.
Do not mix the words: working memory is not storage.
Next question
How does data leave one computer and try to reach another?
References
NIST (2023). random access memory (RAM). NIST Glossary.
NIST (2014). Guidelines for Media Sanitization. NIST Special Publication 800-88 Revision 2.
Citation Note: All referenced papers are open access. We encourage readers to explore the original research for deeper understanding. If you notice any citation errors, please let us know.