Memory management is called the various methods and operations aimed at obtaining the maximum utility and benefit from a computer memory , in pursuit of the proper use and operation of the system as a whole.
A computer memory consists of the series of components, devices and media in a computer that have the purpose of retaining and storing computer data in a circumstantial or permanent way. Every modern computer has memory units that allow the proper functioning of the CPU or Central Processing Unit.
They come in different sizes and formats. A memory can be a chip inserted inside the computer, but the use of external storage units can also be considered memorylike CDs, DVDs or flash drives. Often a computer has a main memory, but this can be complemented with other memory units that are added or with movable memories that allow data to be exchanged between several computers.
Memory management refers, then, to the series of methods and processes that are carried out from the user part in order to obtain the best possible performance from these units.
These operations are multiple and have different uses and direct objectives. For example, a typical operation is to move the information to be executed in and out of the main memory, trying to maximize the use of the processor . Other common operations are the protection of the processes of interference of others, data sharing, so that several processes share the same information and memory, memory partition in several parts, cleaning of data in the memory that are little used or irrelevant, disk formatting and many others.
All these processes are flexible and depend on the use and purpose of the computer by the user to optimize its performance. Often times, the execution of these operations will provide more space available for storing information and will provide greater agility in the management of processes of various kinds and levels.