An external hard disk is a portable data storage device that can be attached to a computer via a USB connection or wirelessly. Unlike the primary internal hard disk where the operating system and other software are installed, the external hard disk can be used to store files, back up data, expand the storage capacity of a device, and transfer files between computers. Some key advantages of using an external hard disk are:
Large Capacity Storage
External hard disks typically have large capacities and can store a huge amount of data. For example, they are available in sizes up to 16TB for desktop models and 5TB for portable models. This is much larger than the storage capacity of other portable devices like USB flash drives. The large capacity makes external hard disks suitable for storing large files like high resolution photos, video files, and music libraries.
Flexibility
External hard disks are highly portable since they are powered via the USB cable when connected to a computer. They do not require an external power source. This allows them to be easily transported and connected to different computers. The data stored on them can be accessed from any computer they are connected to. This makes external hard disks flexible for accessing and sharing files when moving between locations or systems.
Backups
One of the most common uses of external hard disks is to backup data from a main computer. The large storage capacities enable backing up entire systems including operating systems, software programs, and files. Critical data can be regularly backed up from the main internal drive to the external drive. This provides a safety net against data loss in case of system crashes, hard disk failures or computer theft.
Security
External hard disks offer a physical level of security since they can be disconnected from a system when not in use. This prevents unauthorized access to the data in situations where the computer may be left unattended or is connected to a network. Sensitive files can be stored on an external drive and kept secure by unplugging the drive after use. This also provides protection against cyber threats like ransomware attacking files on the external disk.
Upgrade System Capacity
With operating systems and resource-heavy applications demanding more storage space than ever, an external hard disk can help upgrade the storage capacity of a computer. Additional files, media and backups can be stored externally instead of filling up the internal hard disk. Laptops in particular can benefit from expanded capacity through compact external drives.
Data Transfer
External hard disks are a great medium for transferring large amounts of data between computers. For example, they can be used for moving big files like movies, disc images and photos from one computer to another. The files are easily transported by disconnecting and reconnecting the portable external drive.
Types of External Hard Disks
There are primarily two types of external hard disks based on how they are powered and connected to a computer:
Desktop External Hard Disks
- Require a separate power adapter to operate
- Typically have large storage capacities and fast transfer speeds
- Designed to stay stationary and not moved frequently
- Connected to a computer via USB, Firewire, eSATA, Thunderbolt
Portable External Hard Disks
- Powered through the USB cable when connected to a computer
- Smaller storage capacities but still sizable capacities up to 5TB
- Designed for mobility with small, lightweight cases
- Typically connect via USB though some models may have Firewire
Common External Hard Disk Interface Types
There are several data transfer interfaces used by external hard drives to connect to a computer. The most common ones are:
USB
USB ports are virtually standard on all computers and widely used to connect external hard disks. USB 2.0 is the most common with maximum transfer speeds of 60MB/s. USB 3.0 offers faster speeds up to 625MB/s but is less common. USB-C combines USB data transfer with power charging.
Firewire
Firewire ports provide faster data transfer speeds between 400Mbps to 800Mbps compared to USB 2.0. However, Firewire is not as universally available on computers as USB ports.
Thunderbolt
Thunderbolt is a newer interface developed by Intel providing very fast transfer speeds up to 10Gbps or 20Gbps for Thunderbolt 2.0 and 3.0 respectively. However, Thunderbolt technology is not yet common on most computers.
eSATA
External SATA (eSATA) is designed specifically for external hard disks and provides higher performance than USB or Firewire with speeds up to 6Gbps. However, eSATA ports are not present on most consumer laptops.
Considerations When Selecting an External Hard Disk
Key factors to consider when choosing an external hard disk are:
Storage Capacity
Consider how much data you need to store and leave room for expansion. Desktop drives offer larger capacities than portable drives.
Data Transfer Speed
Faster interfaces like eSATA and USB 3.0 offer more than 10 times the transfer rate of USB 2.0. This makes moving large files quicker.
Portability
If you plan to move the drive frequently, get a lightweight portable drive. Desktop models are bulkier but offer larger storage capacities.
Compatibility
Check that the external hard drive is supported by your computer’s operating system and has the connections required by your computer.
Reliability
Always buy your drive from a reputable manufacturer. Read customer reviews and check warranty terms as hard disks can fail.
Security
Some external hard drives come with data encryption and rugged casings to protect sensitive data.
How to Use an External Hard Disk
Using an external hard disk typically involves the following steps:
- Connect the external hard drive to your computer using the interface cable e.g. USB.
- Allow some time for the computer to detect the new disk and install any necessary drivers.
- The external disk will now appear as a drive letter or icon on your computer.
- You can access the disk and manage files just like your computer’s internal drive through your operating system’s file manager e.g. Windows Explorer or Finder.
- Drag-and-drop files or folders you want to store on the external disk.
- Safely eject the external drive before disconnecting it through the ‘Safely Remove Hardware’ option.
Tips for Using an External Hard Disk
- Keep the disk in a safe, protected place when storing or moving it.
- Always eject the disk properly before disconnecting it.
- Handle the disk carefully and avoid shocks or drops.
- Keep backups of your important data on a second external disk or other storage.
- Encrypt sensitive data if you plan to transport the disk to different locations.
- Regularly scan external disks with antivirus software for malware.
Advantages and Disadvantages of External Hard Disks
Advantages
- Portability to move data anywhere
- Ability to securely disconnect and store data when not in use
- Large capacities to expand storage
- Backups to protect important files
- Expand capacity of desktop and laptop computers
- Some models are water resistant and shockproof
Disadvantages
- Require cables and connections to operate unlike cloud storage
- Still prone to data loss if not backed up properly
- Not as fast data access speeds as internal storage
- Possibility of failure over time
- Need to be kept physically secure due to external access
- Less convenient than cloud storage for online access
Conclusion
External hard disks provide a versatile way to expand storage and enable large amounts of data to be easily transported and accessed across multiple devices. Key advantages include large capacities, portability, data backup capabilities and enhanced security when disconnected from a system. With USB ports standard on computers, external hard drives are simple to use. Just connect, store data, safely eject and go. Though not without disadvantages like speed limitations and physical security considerations, external hard disks offer extensive benefits for both home and business users with their convenience and flexibility.