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Understanding Data Storage
Home » Enterprise Software » Data Storage » Understanding Data StorageThere are many types of digital storage. Within all computers there is the primary storage system and other, secondary storage systems. The primary storage is maintained in the hard drive, or central processing unit (CPU). The CPU uses processor registers to perform the logic and arithmetic functions. Memory (random access memory, or RAM) is the type of storage used while programs and data are active. The CPU also uses cache, which is another specialized form of storage, used to “hold” items that are active, but not currently in use. Most people think of a computer’s hard drive as it’s main storage facility, but actually it is considered a secondary form of storage since that is where programs, information, and data are stored when not actively in use.
Other secondary storage devices include tertiary storage in which large amounts of data are held in queue for faster access, such as in the area of research and university studies. Large corporations may also benefit from the use of tertiary storage while conducting business activities.
A third type of storage is best explained as backup or offline storage which is not accessible under normal compute operations, but that is available if needed. Tape backups, online backups, flash drives and zip drives are all forms of offline storage.
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