Nonvolatilemuistia

Nonvolatilemuistia, meaning non-volatile memory in Finnish, refers to any type of computer memory that can retain stored information even when not powered. This contrasts with volatile memory, such as DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory), which loses its data as soon as the power supply is interrupted.

The primary characteristic of non-volatile memory is its persistence. This allows it to store data, operating systems, applications, and user files that need to be available even after a system is turned off and then back on. Examples of non-volatile memory technologies include flash memory, used in USB drives, SSDs (Solid-State Drives), and memory cards; ROM (Read-Only Memory), often used for firmware or BIOS; and hard disk drives (HDDs), which use magnetic storage.

Non-volatile memory plays a crucial role in modern computing, enabling device startup, long-term data storage, and the operation of portable electronic devices. Its ability to retain data without continuous power makes it indispensable for maintaining system integrity and user accessibility. The development of non-volatile memory has been a key driver in the miniaturization and increased performance of electronic devices.