Date First Published: 5th March 2024
Topic: Computer Systems
Subtopic: Computer Hardware
Article Type: Computer Terms & Definitions
Difficulty: MediumDifficulty Level: 5/10
Learn about what a secondary storage device is in this article.
Secondary storage, also known as auxiliary storage, refers to non-volatile storage and long-term storage devices that are not always directly accessible by a computer. It is used to keep data separate from the computer itself. Data that does not require primary storage can be migrated to secondary storage devices to free up space and improve performance on primary storage devices.
Not all computers have secondary storage. For example, embedded devices, such as those found in a smartwatch do not need to store data when the power is turned off. The instructions needed to run them are stored in the ROM and user data is stored in the RAM.
Secondary storage is used to store data, information, and programs for later use. They are used for data backups, disaster recovery, and long-term storage of important files and programs. If a computer stops functioning, a secondary storage device can be used to recover a recent backup to a new system. Without any secondary storage devices, the capabilities and practical uses of computers would be severely limited. It would limit the computer's functionality to basic operations and it would not be possible to install or run any software applications.
Secondary storage devices must be connected to a computer's external I/O ports to be accessed by the system. Below are five examples of secondary storage devices:
The main difference between primary storage and secondary storage is that primary storage is directly accessible by the CPU, whilst secondary storage is non-volatile, not directly accessed by the CPU, and used to store and retrieve information in the long term.
Compared to secondary storage, primary storage (e.g. RAM, ROM, cache, and flash memory) is smaller in size and is a key component of a computer for it to function. Secondary storage is not necessary for the normal functioning of a computer, but is used to backup data from the primary storage.
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