Abstract: A system and method allocate memory by a network processor system in an off-chip DRAM. Upon initiation, an on-chip DRAM controller module creates a software structure that allocates blocks of memory locations in the DRAM as packet memory blocks. As a CPU, input/output module, and intrusion detection circuit read and write packets from the DRAM across a common bus, the DRAM controller module facilitates the rapid flow of packets in and out of the DRAM. FreeLists of packet buffer blocks are maintained by both the DRAM controller and the CPU for quick access in directing the flow of packets to available packet buffer blocks.