RAM, which means Random Access Memory, is a computer storage media that can be accessed much quicker than a hard drive, as the data can be read randomly, skipping the bytes before the needed info is reached. On a hosting server, the RAM is used to load scripts and web apps when they are executed, so the more RAM you are able to use, the more apps you'll be able to run concurrently and the more people shall be able to explore your Internet sites without any effect on the site’s/server’s performance. Unlike a disk drive, however, the RAM is employed for non permanent storage purposes, as the info is lost once the power is shut off. When you use a shared web hosting account, the physical memory which your scripts may use may be limited and could change based upon what the other customers on the same hosting server use. Through a virtual or a dedicated hosting server, on the other hand, you will have a set amount of RAM that will not be used by anybody else even if you do not use it at a given time.