COW (Copy-On-Write)

Copy-On-Write (COW) is a resource management technique used in computing where copies of data are only created when modifications are made. When multiple programs or processes need the same data, they initially share a single copy to save space and improve efficiency. If one needs to change the data, only then is a separate copy made at that moment, leaving the original unchanged. This approach reduces unnecessary duplication, speeds up processes, and conserves memory until modifications are necessary.