what is the difference between storage and memory?
Memory and disk storage both refer to internal storage space in a computer. Each is used for a different purpose. The term memory usually means RAM (Random Access Memory); RAM is hardware that allows the computer to efficiently perform more than one task at a time (i.e., multi-task). The terms disk space and storage usually refer to hard drive storage.
Storage (whether in the form of a hard drive or SSD) is the component in your computer that allows for long-term data access. It's the component that accesses and stores your files, applications and operating system. Together, memory and storage work in tandem with your system's processor to access and use data. Here's how all three components work together. 1  The storage drive houses programs and files. 2  The speed of the storage drive plays a big role in determining how fast your system is able to boot up, load applications, and access anything that you've saved.