What is "buffer"

In computer science, buffer (retainer) is a physical memory storage region used to temporarily store the data while they are being moved from one place to another.

Usually, data is stored in a buffer while it is retrieved from an input device (such as a microphone) or just before it is sent to an output device (such as speakers). However, a buffer can be used when moving data between processes within a computer. This is comparable to telecom buffers.

Buffers can be deployed to a fixed memory location on the hardware - or by using a virtual data buffer in software, pointing to a location in physical memory. In all cases, data stored in a data buffer is stored on a physical storage medium.

Most buffers are implemented in software, which usually uses the fastest RAM to store temporary data due to much faster access time compared to hard disk drives. Buffers are usually used when there is a difference between the rate at which the data is received and the rate at which it can be processed, or in the case where these rates are variable, for example in a print spooler or in streaming online video.

For more information, visit: Buffer (computer science).