Cache Memory and Virtual Memory
Cache memory and virtual memory are two essential components in a computer system. As users, we rely on memory to store data, information, and instructions that help the system function smoothly. The performance of your system heavily depends on how efficiently this memory works. While there are various types of memory available, here we’ll focus only on cache memory and virtual memory, and explore the key differences between the two.
Cache Memory
Cache Memory, on the other hand, is a memory area that contains recently used data, and it is employed by the CPU to enhance speed. Whenever a program is to be executed, it is copied to the cache memory, and then the CPU proceeds with the execution. If the program is already present in the cache memory, the CPU directly executes it.
Virtual Memory
Virtual Memory is a technique that increases the capacity of the main memory. It utilizes data swap technology, where the hard disk area is utilized as virtual memory. Unlike its name suggests, virtual memory is not a physical memory within the computer system. Rather, it is a technique that enables the computer to execute large programs that cannot be entirely stored in the main memory. Therefore, virtual memory serves as an imaginary space that assists the main memory.
Difference between Cache Memory and Virtual Memory
The following table highlights all the important differences between Cache Memory and Virtual Memory
| S. No. | Virtual Memory | Cache Memory |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Increases the capacity of main memory. | Increases the accessing speed of the CPU. |
| 2. | Not a memory unit; rather, a technique. | A dedicated memory unit. |
| 3. | Larger in size compared to cache memory. | Smaller in size compared to virtual memory. |
| 4. | Managed by the Operating System. | Managed by hardware. |
| 5. | Executes programs larger than the main memory size. | Stores recently used data for faster CPU access. |
| 6. | Requires mapping frameworks to map virtual addresses. | No need for mapping frameworks. |
| 7. | Slower compared to cache memory. | Faster memory. |
| 8. | Used for data or programs not fully placed in memory. | Stores frequently accessed data to reduce access time. |