What is the role of virtual memory in computational architecture?

Virtual memory is a crucial component of computational architecture as it allows the operating system to compensate for the physical memory constraints of a system. By creating an illusion of larger memory space than physically exists, the operating system can use virtual memory to store data that isn't currently being used in physical memory, freeing up physical memory to be used for other tasks.

This helps to simplify programming, as developers can assume that there is always more memory available than what is physically installed, even if it's not being used in real-time. In addition, virtual memory can help to prevent crashes or system freezes due to insufficient memory, by allowing the operating system to swap data in and out of physical memory as needed.

Overall, virtual memory enables more efficient use of physical memory resources and improves the overall performance and reliability of a system.

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