What is the main difference between primary storage and secondary storage?

The main difference between primary storage and secondary storage is that primary storage is designed for speed and is volatile, meaning that it loses its contents when the power is turned off. Examples of primary storage include RAM (Random Access Memory), which allows for quick read and write access by the CPU during operation. This fast access is critical for active processes and tasks that need immediate data retrieval.

On the other hand, secondary storage is primarily used for its capacity and permanence. It includes storage media such as hard drives, SSDs, CDs, and USB drives, which retain data even when the power is off. While secondary storage may be slower than primary storage concerning access speed, it plays a crucial role in storing data long-term.

The distinction in volatility and speed between these two types of storage is fundamental to understanding how data is processed and managed in computer systems. The characteristics of primary and secondary storage directly influence system performance and data accessibility, making this differentiation key in the study of ICT.