Block Sub-allocation: A Deep Dive into Efficient Memory Management
Introduction Memory allocation is one of the most fundamental operations in any software system, from low‑level kernels to high‑performance graphics engines. While the classic malloc/free pair works well for general‑purpose workloads, modern applications often demand predictable latency, minimal fragmentation, and tight control over allocation size. This is where block sub‑allocation comes into play. Block sub‑allocation (sometimes called sub‑heap, region allocator, or memory pool) is a technique where a large contiguous block of memory—often called a parent block—is obtained from the operating system (or a lower‑level allocator) and then internally sliced into many smaller pieces that are handed out to the application. By managing these slices yourself, you can: ...