Overview
This lecture covers the differences between volatile and nonvolatile storage, local storage types, and local network storage options, all key for the CompTIA Tech Plus certification.
Volatile vs Nonvolatile Storage
- Volatile storage (e.g., RAM) requires power to retain data; data is lost when power is removed.
- RAM (Random Access Memory) is fast, temporary, and used for active applications and processing.
- Nonvolatile storage retains data without power and is used for long-term storage.
- ROM (Read Only Memory) is nonvolatile and stores firmware and boot information permanently.
- Hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) are also nonvolatile storage.
Local Storage Types
- RAM is volatile and used for short-term, high-speed data access during active sessions.
- ROM is nonvolatile, contains firmware, and is rarely changed.
- HDDs use spinning platters for storage, have high capacity, are affordable, but slower with moving parts.
- SSDs use flash memory, are faster, have no moving parts, and provide high durability and performance.
- NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a protocol for SSDs, offering even higher speeds via PCIe connections.
- Optical drives use lasers on discs like CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray; good for distribution but slow with limited capacity.
- External flash drives (USB drives, SD cards) are portable, easy to use, affordable, but have limited capacity and durability.
Local Network Storage
- Network Attached Storage (NAS) provides shared file access over a local network, centralizing data for multiple users.
- File Servers are dedicated computers for managing and sharing files, offering advanced control, but require more setup.
- Cloud Storage stores data on remote servers, accessible over the internet; offers scalability and remote access but relies on connectivity and raises privacy concerns.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Volatile Storage — Memory that loses data when power is off (e.g., RAM).
- Nonvolatile Storage — Memory that retains data without power (e.g., ROM, HDD, SSD).
- RAM (Random Access Memory) — Fast, volatile memory for temporary data storage.
- ROM (Read Only Memory) — Nonvolatile memory for firmware and boot data.
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive) — Magnetic, nonvolatile storage with moving platters.
- SSD (Solid State Drive) — Flash-based, nonvolatile, fast storage.
- NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) — High-speed storage protocol for SSDs.
- Optical Drive — Uses discs and lasers (CD/DVD/Blu-ray) for storage.
- NAS (Network Attached Storage) — Device providing shared storage over a network.
- File Server — Computer managing and sharing network files.
- Cloud Storage — Internet-based remote storage solution.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key storage type differences for the CompTIA Tech Plus exam.
- Study the roles and use cases of each storage option.
- Complete any assigned practice questions related to storage types.