Invest in an External HDD for Convenience and Data Security

External Hard Disk Drives come in a variety of shapes and sizes and allow a user to keep large amounts of data with them wherever they go or when transferring old data onto a new computer.  An external hard drive is a versatile tool and, among other things, can be used to store pictures to take to family and friends or movies to watch when you are traveling.

The newer models typically connect via a USB 2.0 connection which allows the computer to power the drive without the need for a separate power cable.  This increases their portability because they do not need to be tethered to a power outlet and can be more easily used while traveling.  The USB 2.0 also facilitates the transfer of data between the computer and the drive.   However, the older external drives that do require a power supply are usually priced cheaper, which will allow someone who does not need the extra portability to purchase more storage space at a lower price than a drive that does not need to plug into an outlet.

Another option can be to purchase an internal hard drive case or connector.  These allow you to use internal hard drives, maybe from an older desktop or laptop, and connect them via a USB or SATA interface.  If an old computer dies and the hard drive is still functional, then it can be removed and used like an external hard drive.  This allows you to keep all of your old data and transfer it to a new pc.  It also gives you the option of purchasing a new internal drive and your own case to create your own external hdd.  A drawback is that they do not come with automatic security features.

External HDDs are good investments.  They allow you to carry your data in a portable form and give you extra space on your computer by allowing you to store videos, music, and the like on the external drive which frees up the internal drive for programs and games.