Linux · Flashcard
What is the primary purpose of a Linux swap partition or file?
- ATo extend usable memory by paging out idle pages from RAM to disk
- BTo store the bootloader and kernel images needed to start the system
- CTo hold user home directories separately from the root filesystem
- DTo cache package downloads so apt and dnf reinstall faster
Why this is the answer
Swap provides backing store so the kernel can move inactive memory pages out of RAM, easing memory pressure and enabling hibernation. It is not for the bootloader, home directories, or package caches.
Official docs