Where is the running-configuration file stored?

The running-configuration file is stored in RAM (Random Access Memory). This is where the router or switch keeps the current configuration that is actively being used. When a device boots up, it loads its configuration from NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) into RAM to allow for quick access and changes.

Since RAM is volatile memory, it means that its contents are cleared when the device is powered down or restarted. Hence, any changes made to the running-configuration will be lost unless they are saved to the startup-configuration in NVRAM. This distinction is essential for understanding how network devices manage their configuration files, as it directly affects how configurations are applied and retained across reboots.