Where are programs that are not currently running usually stored?

Programs that are not currently running are typically stored in secondary storage. Secondary storage refers to non-volatile storage devices such as hard drives, solid-state drives, and external storage devices, where data and programs are kept even when the computer is powered off. This storage allows for larger capacity and permanent data persistence compared to primary memory (RAM), which is volatile and is used for programs and data that are currently in use.

Primary memory is designed for active processes and loses its contents when the power is switched off. Cache memory is a small amount of very fast memory located near the CPU, used to temporarily store frequently accessed data or instructions - it does not permanently hold programs. The motherboard is a physical circuit board that connects all components of a computer, including the CPU and memory, but does not itself store programs. Therefore, secondary storage is the most appropriate choice for the location of programs that are not currently running.