Which memory component typically stores permanent instructions and is non-volatile?

Which memory component typically stores permanent instructions and is non-volatile?

• A. RAM
• B. ROM
• C. Cache
• D. RAM Disk

Answer: (B)

Non-volatile memory that retains its contents without power and holds essential, fixed instructions is what ROM provides. It stores firmware and boot code the system needs to start up, and those instructions remain available even after the device is turned off. RAM, by contrast, is temporary workspace the CPU uses while running; it loses its contents when power is removed. Cache is a tiny, ultra-fast memory inside the processor that speeds up data access, but it’s also volatile and not meant for permanent storage. A RAM Disk uses part of RAM as a disk-like area, which is useful for speed during operation but vanishes when power is off. So ROM best fits the description of permanent, non-volatile storage for core instructions.

Non-volatile memory that retains its contents without power and holds essential, fixed instructions is what ROM provides. It stores firmware and boot code the system needs to start up, and those instructions remain available even after the device is turned off. RAM, by contrast, is temporary workspace the CPU uses while running; it loses its contents when power is removed. Cache is a tiny, ultra-fast memory inside the processor that speeds up data access, but it’s also volatile and not meant for permanent storage. A RAM Disk uses part of RAM as a disk-like area, which is useful for speed during operation but vanishes when power is off. So ROM best fits the description of permanent, non-volatile storage for core instructions.