What is storage?
Storage is used to keep files, programs and other data for longer periods, even when the computer is turned off.
HDD and SSD
HDD
Uses spinning magnetic disks and a moving read/write head. It can offer large capacity at a lower cost, but it is mechanical.
SSD
Uses flash memory and has no moving mechanical parts. It is generally faster and more resistant to physical shock than an HDD.
Other storage
- USB flash drive: small portable flash storage.
- Memory card: compact flash storage used in phones, cameras and other devices.
- External drive: storage connected outside the main computer, often used for backup or extra capacity.
- Cloud storage: files stored on remote servers and accessed through a network.
Capacity units
Common units include KB, MB, GB and TB. In everyday device specifications, manufacturers commonly use decimal units, while operating systems may display capacity using binary-based measurements or labels such as GiB.
Good habit: Keep important files in more than one place. A second copy is a backup; a second copy on the same failing drive is not a reliable backup.