Description: A swap file is a file on disk that is used as swap space, allowing the operating system to manage memory more efficiently. The swap file acts as an extension of RAM, providing an area where temporarily inactive data can be stored. This is particularly useful when physical memory is saturated, as it allows the system to continue functioning smoothly by moving less critical data to this disk space. Swap files are configurable, meaning administrators can adjust their size and location according to system needs. Additionally, their use can enhance overall system performance by allowing greater flexibility in resource management. However, it is important to note that accessing a swap file is significantly slower than accessing RAM, so its use must be balanced to avoid performance bottlenecks.
