RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer memory that temporarily stores data and is used to hold information that is frequently accessed by the central processing unit (CPU). RAM allows the computer to quickly access the data it needs to carry out operations, which helps to speed up the overall performance of the system. Unlike storage devices such as hard drives, the data in RAM is lost when the computer is turned off. The amount of RAM in a computer affects its performance and the maximum amount of tasks it can handle simultaneously.