Today, most basic systems require 256MB to run basic applications. If you want decent performance though, up to 512MB or more is needed when using graphical and multimedia programs. If you want to have an indication of how much things have changed over the past two decades, consider this: in 1981, referring to computer memory, Bill Gates said, "640K (roughly 1/2 of a megabyte) ought to be enough for anybody."

For many people, the memory equation is simple: more is good; less is bad. However, for those who want to know more, this article contains answers to the most basic questions regarding memory.

People in the computer industry commonly use the term "memory" to refer to RAM (Random Access Memory). A computer uses RAM to hold temporary instructions and data needed to complete tasks. This enables the computer's CPU (Central Processing Unit), to access instructions and data stored in memory very quickly.

A good example of this is when the CPU loads an application program such as a word processing or page layout program into memory, thereby allowing the application program to work as quickly and efficiently as possible. In practical terms, having the program loaded into memory means you can complete work faster with less time spent waiting for the computer to perform tasks.

People often confuse the terms memory and storage, especially when describing the amount they have of each. The term memory refers to the amount of RAM installed in the computer, whereas the term storage refers to the capacity of the computer's hard disk. To clarify this common mix-up, it helps to compare your computer to an office that contains a desk and a file cabinet.

Consider the desk-and-file-cabinet metaphor for a moment. Imagine what it would be like if every time you wanted to look at a document or folder you had to retrieve it from the file drawer. It would slow you down tremendously, not to mention drive you crazy. With adequate desk space - our metaphor for memory - you can lay out the documents in use and retrieve information from them immediately, often with just a glance.

Here's another important difference between memory and storage: the information stored on a hard disk remains intact even when the computer is turned off. However, any data held in memory is lost when the computer is turned off. In our desk space metaphor, it's as though any files left on the desk at closing time will be thrown away.

I hope I have cleared at least some of your misunderstandings regarding this subject. The truth is that the figures that I gave you are probably going to change very soon. So, yes, when it comes to computer memory, more is better.