Why do servers use ECC memory?

Question

I understand that ECC checks for errors and corrects them automatically without the knowledge of the operating system or user. I don't understand however why servers often use ECC memory?

Answer 1

Servers use ECC memory because it detects errors and automatically corrects them. This ensures the current process will run without issues and never have to restart.

If you choose not to use ecc memory, and you have a long running process that encounters an error, you could potentially have to restart the entire process which will cost a lot and could also delay other important processes.

Think of ECC memory like tools from Home Depot. If you are working on a home project, almost any tool will work. But if you are a professional carpenter you will by the best tools, because a broken tool can waste hours of your time when it breaks.