What type of memory is flash memory classified as?

Flash memory is classified as nonvolatile computer memory because it retains data even when the power is turned off. This characteristic distinguishes it from volatile memory, which loses its content when power is lost. Nonvolatile memory is crucial for devices that need to store data persistently, such as SSDs and USB flash drives.

While temporary data storage might refer to the way certain types of data are handled by a device during operation, flash memory itself is designed for long-term data retention. Similarly, although flash memory is a physical storage medium in that it exists in a tangible form, the term does not specifically define the underlying memory technology. Nonvolatile memory encapsulates the key feature of flash memory, highlighting its ability to hold data over time without a continuous power supply. This classification is essential for understanding how different types of memory function within computers and electronic devices.