What does non-volatile memory refer to?

Non-volatile memory refers to storage that retains its data even when power is turned off. This characteristic makes it crucial for long-term data preservation, as users can store information without the need for constant electricity. Common examples of non-volatile memory include flash drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), and ROM (Read-Only Memory).

In contrast, volatile memory, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), requires power to maintain the stored information and loses it once the device is powered down. Therefore, when considering the defining features of non-volatile memory, the ability to retain data without a continuous power supply is its key attribute. This makes non-volatile memory essential for devices that need to keep data intact across sessions, such as computers and mobile devices, where user settings, applications, and files must be accessed again later.