Memory is essential for the functioning of a computer—for programs to load and run, and for information to be generated and stored in a retrievable format. The allocation and deallocation of memory by a memory allocator is essential for efficient performance.

A memory allocator is mechanical. Generally, there are two types of allocators within a computer, a kernel level allocator and a user-space allocator. A memory allocator's task is to respond to a memory request based on its knowledge of the amount and location of free and used memory. Memory can be allocated in dislocated chunks. Fragmentation is avoided, as dedication of a discrete section of memory is preferred. This process can be difficult, however, as the allocator can only respond to the request for allocation and deallocation. It cannot bundle smaller packets of memory into the desired size or...