Difference between Internal and External Memory

There are mainly two types of memory in computers – Internal and External memory. The purpose of memory is to store programming operations, data, and set of instructions to run an operating system.

Moreover, memory is also helpful in storing permanent and temporary files inside the computer. These files are accessible by the operating system as and when there is any need.

In computing, internal and external memory, both save and access data files but have different physical and working characteristics. Let’s discuss both of them.

What is Internal Memory?

Internal memory (also known as primary or main memory) is available and attached inside the computer system. Besides, it is a type of storage that is accessible by the system without any use of input or output devices.

Also, it is not portable, which means it cannot be taken apart from the computer. Furthermore, this memory is directly accessible by CPU for a set of instructions and programs.

For example, RAM is a type of internal memory that stores the existing application’s instructions and programs.

Types of Internal Memory

• RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM (internal memory) is a type of volatile storage that stores temporary information for faster accessing. Also, RAM saves temporary files of open programs and applications on a computer.

• ROM (Read Only Memory)

ROM is a read-only memory, and once the data is input, it cannot be changed. Data are written into ROM when it is manufacture. Also, if any single bit is wrongly input, the whole ROM becomes useless.

• Cache Memory

Cache memory is helpful to store temporary information that has been accessed by a buffer. In addition, it eases the work of the processor by speeding up data access on the computer.

What is External Memory?

External memory (also known as secondary memory) is a type of hard disk drive or other storage device. Besides, this memory stores data externally, allowing permanent storage of broad information.

Moreover, external memory is also portable, which means it is removable and can be used in other computers. The method of storing data in external memory is different than that of internal memory.

For example, magnetic tapes, optical drives, hard disks, etc. have high capacity storage to store a large amount of data.

Types of External Memory

• Magnetic Tapes
• Magnetic Disks
• Hard Disk Drive
• Optical Drive

Difference between Internal and External Memory

Basis	Internal Memory	External Memory
Nature	Ram is volatile, but ROM is non-volatile in nature	Non-volatile in nature
Other Name	It is also known as Primary or main memory	It is also known as secondary memory
Physical Appearance	Looks like chips and is attached to the motherboard inside the computer	Look like a storage device or disk that are portable and connects to every computer
Connectivity	Connects internally by inserting chips or when the machine is manufacture	Connect through data cable or externally to the network
Data Storage	The Data is stored temporarily to access files faster	The Data is stored permanently for long-term
Working Memory	It is a working memory	It is not a working memory
Large Data	It cannot store extensive data	It saves a broad amount of data
Portability	Non-portable	Portable
Example	Ram & Rom	Hard Disk & Optical Drive

 

Final Words

As far as we are concern about memory, internal and external memory both, have the same working to store and access data. Besides, the only prime difference is their working and operating characteristics.

The main memory (internal) is helpful as a working memory to store temporary files for faster accessing of data. On the other hand, secondary memory (external) has no such intention. It instead stores data permanently for the long term.