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Memory Management

The document outlines memory management, emphasizing its importance in efficiently allocating and managing memory in both uni-programming and multiprogramming environments. It details requirements such as relocation, protection, sharing, and organization, along with various techniques like fixed and dynamic partitioning, paging, and segmentation. Key challenges include internal and external fragmentation and the need for efficient allocation.

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Muhammad Hammad
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4 views4 pages

Memory Management

The document outlines memory management, emphasizing its importance in efficiently allocating and managing memory in both uni-programming and multiprogramming environments. It details requirements such as relocation, protection, sharing, and organization, along with various techniques like fixed and dynamic partitioning, paging, and segmentation. Key challenges include internal and external fragmentation and the need for efficient allocation.

Uploaded by

Muhammad Hammad
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Memory Management: Summary and Explanation

1. Memory Management Overview

 Definition and Importance:


o Memory management involves efficiently allocating and managing main memory
in uni-programming and multiprogramming environments.
o It ensures that multiple processes can run efficiently without causing processor
idle time due to waiting for I/O operations.
o Dynamic subdivision of memory is key in multiprogramming environments.

2. Memory Management Requirements

1. Relocation:
o Processes need to move dynamically in memory during execution (swapping in
and out).
o This requires translation of logical memory references into physical addresses to
reflect current memory locations.
o Example: A process's memory image is not fixed and might occupy different
areas during execution.
2. Protection:
o Each process's memory space must be isolated to prevent unwanted interference
(accidental or intentional).
o Protection mechanisms must work at runtime to ensure processes cannot access
unauthorized memory locations.
o Hardware plays a vital role in enforcing protection since the OS cannot predict
memory references in advance.
3. Sharing:
o Memory management must allow controlled sharing of memory among processes
working together.
o Protection and relocation mechanisms often support sharing capabilities.
4. Logical Organization:
o Programs are organized into modules (some modifiable, others not) rather than
linear address spaces.
o Logical organization facilitates modular programming and enhances usability.
5. Physical Organization:
o Memory consists of fast, volatile main memory and slower, non-volatile
secondary memory.
o Efficient transfer of data between these two memory types is crucial for system
performance.
3. Memory Management Techniques

1. Fixed Partitioning:

 Equal Size Partitions:


o Divides memory into fixed-sized sections.
o Issues:
 Internal fragmentation: Unused space within partitions.
 Inefficiency for large programs requiring overlays.
 Unequal Size Partitions:
o Offers partitions of varying sizes to reduce internal fragmentation.
o Requires placement algorithms to determine the best fit for processes.

2. Dynamic Partitioning:

 Allocates memory based on the exact size needed for a process.


 Issues:
o External Fragmentation: Small unusable memory holes develop over time.
o Compaction: Resolves fragmentation by reorganizing memory but is time-
intensive and requires dynamic relocation.

3. Paging:

 Divides memory and processes into fixed-sized units (pages and frames).
 Eliminates both internal and external fragmentation by assigning non-contiguous memory
chunks to processes.
 Addresses are managed using page tables.

4. Segmentation:

 Divides programs into logical segments (e.g., functions, data structures) that align with
their logical structure.
 Enhances program modularity but can result in external fragmentation.

5. Bitmaps:

 Tracks memory allocation with a binary map indicating free (0) or occupied (1) units.
 Challenges:
o Searching for free memory blocks in a bitmap can be slow, making it less
practical for large systems.

6. Linked Lists:

 Maintains a list of allocated and free memory segments.


 Placement algorithms include:
o First Fit: Finds the first suitable hole.
o Next Fit: Continues search from the last allocation point.
o Best Fit: Chooses the smallest adequate hole.
o Worst Fit: Selects the largest available hole.
o Quick Fit: Uses pre-sorted lists for common allocation sizes for faster searches.

4. Key Challenges

 Internal Fragmentation: Wasted memory within partitions.


 External Fragmentation: Scattered free memory blocks.
 Efficient Allocation: Balancing speed and memory usage.

This document provides a comprehensive overview of memory management, its requirements,


techniques, and the associated challenges. It aims to serve as a foundational resource for
understanding the subject.

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