Embodiments of the present invention include RRAM devices and their methods of fabrication. In an embodiment, a resistive random access memory (RRAM) cell includes a conductive interconnect disposed in a dielectric layer above a substrate. An RRAM device is coupled to the conductive interconnect. An RRAM memory includes a bottom electrode disposed above the conductive interconnect and on a portion of the dielectric layer. A conductive layer is formed on the bottom electrode layer. The conductive layer is separate and distinct from the bottom electrode layer. The conductive layer further includes a material that is different from the bottom electrode layer. A switching layer is formed on the conductive layer. An oxygen exchange layer is formed on the switching layer and a top electrode is formed on the oxygen exchange layer.