To allocate a resource is to designate or reserve it for a specific use. In computers, any limited resource may be allocated, such as RAM and disk space.

Memory allocation

Before software can use your computer’s RAM, it requests a memory allocation from the operating system. The operating system attempts to accommodate the request, based on factors including how much memory is used by other software. If not enough memory can be allocated, the software may not run.

  • Memory allocation.
  • Disk allocation.
  • IP allocation.
  • Memory allocation in computer programming.

Disk allocation

Before a non-volatile storage device, such as a hard disk or SSD, can be used, some or all its available space must be allocated. The allocation is performed by disk management software, such as your operating system installer, Windows Disk Management, fdisk, or GParted. The allocation is called a partition. Any space not partitioned on the disk is called unallocated.

  • How to set up a hard drive and partition in Windows.

IP allocation

On the Internet and on networks, IP addresses are broken into blocks that are allocated to devices. On a local or home network, this allocation is often automatically handled by a router. On the Internet, the allocation is handled by ICANN.

Memory allocation in computer programming

Each computer programming language offers its own approach to memory management. The C programming language requires the developer explicitly allocate and free memory used by a C program. The Python programming language manages memory automatically, which makes the developer’s life easier, at the expense of performance. Like C, the C++ programming language permits for explicitly managed memory, but also provides optional memory management features such as GC (garbage collection).

Memory, Operating System terms, Programming terms

  • How to create a computer program.