What is virtual memory and how does it work?

What is virtual memory and how does it work?

Virtual memory is a memory management technique that allows the execution of processes that may not completely fit in physical memory. It uses disk space to extend the available memory.

Why is virtual memory important for modern operating systems?

It's crucial because it enables systems to run larger applications than the physical memory would allow, improving multitasking and system stability.

How does the operating system manage virtual memory?

The OS uses a combination of hardware and software to manage virtual memory, including page tables and swapping data between RAM and disk.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using virtual memory?

Advantages include efficient memory use and the ability to run large applications. Disadvantages can be slower performance due to disk access.

Can you explain the concept of paging in virtual memory?

Paging is a memory management scheme that eliminates the need for contiguous allocation of physical memory, allowing the OS to retrieve data from non-contiguous memory locations.