A RAM Disk is Random Access Memory (RAM) that has been adjusted to simulate a disk drive. You can access data on a RAM disk as you’d access data on a ‘hard disk’ (hard drive). RAM disks, however, are approximately a thousand times faster than hard disk drives. These are useful for applications that require frequent memory access.
It’s important to note RAM disks lose their contents once the device is turned off. To use a RAM disk you need to copy files from a real hard drive at the beginning of the session and then copy the files back to the hard disk before you turn the computer off. If there is a power failure, all data on the RAM disk drive will be lost, although, some RAM disks come with a battery backup to make them more functional.
Additional Reading: Boost Your PC’s Storage Performance
Related Terms: Random Access Memory (RAM)