Intermediate Topic 33 of 51 Operating Systems
Memory Allocation
Strategies like first-fit and buddy systems.
How it works
Allocators use first-fit, best-fit or worst-fit on free lists, or buddy systems that split blocks into powers of two, and slab allocators for kernel objects.
Where it is used
malloc/free implementations.
Common pitfall
Fragmentation and leaks; freeing twice or using after free corrupts memory.
Where it fits in the course
Memory Allocation is topic 33 of 51 in Operating Systems, rated Intermediate. It follows Thrashing. The next topic is Memory Mapped Files.
Practice and explore
- Open the interactive lesson, with a mini quiz.
- Take the Operating Systems quiz.
How to study this topic
- Read the explanation above and restate the definition in your own words.
- Open the interactive lesson and answer its mini quiz.
- Read the common pitfall, then write a short example that avoids it.
- Check your understanding in the Operating Systems quiz, and revisit the topic if you miss a question.
Frequently asked questions
What is Memory Allocation?
Strategies like first-fit and buddy systems. It belongs to Operating Systems and is an intermediate-level topic.
Where do people use Memory Allocation?
malloc/free implementations.
What is the most common mistake with Memory Allocation?
Fragmentation and leaks; freeing twice or using after free corrupts memory.
What should I learn before this topic?
Start with Thrashing, the topic just before it in Operating Systems.
How can I practice it?
Answer the mini quiz in the interactive lesson, then take the Operating Systems quiz.
Is Memory Allocation hard to learn?
It is an Intermediate topic. Be comfortable with the Beginner topics in this area first, then read the common pitfall carefully, since it is where most mistakes happen.
How long does it take to learn Memory Allocation?
Most learners can read the explanation and finish the interactive lesson in under an hour. Fluency comes from applying the idea, so plan a few short practice sessions with the quiz.
Which topics are related to Memory Allocation?
Thrashing, Memory Mapped Files, Page Replacement Algorithms are closely connected. The full list is in the related topics section of this page.
What should I study after Memory Allocation?
Continue with Memory Mapped Files, the next topic in Operating Systems.
Related topics
- Thrashing (Operating Systems)
- Memory Mapped Files (Operating Systems)
- Page Replacement Algorithms (Operating Systems)
- File Systems (Operating Systems)
- Manual Memory Management (Languages & Compilers)
- Memory Barriers (Concurrency & Parallelism)
- Memory Hierarchy (Computer Architecture & Logic)