Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Installed in slots on the motherboard.
• Stores running programs and active data.

Architecture Limits

• 32-bit systems → up to 4 GB RAM
• 64-bit systems → can use much more RAM

How RAM Works

• Programs load into RAM when running.
• CPU executes instructions from RAM.
• Faster than disk storage.

Swap (Virtual Memory)

• Used when RAM is low.
• Inactive data is moved from RAM to disk (swap space).
• Automatically managed by the system.
• Slower than RAM but prevents crashes.

Check Memory Usage

• free -m → shows RAM & swap in MB
• free -g → shows RAM & swap in GB