
disk drive
A disk drive is a device that stores digital information, such as files and software, inside a computer. It uses a spinning disk coated with magnetic material where data is recorded and retrieved by read/write heads. Think of it like a highly organized, magnetic filing cabinet that keeps everything safe and accessible. Disk drives come in different forms, including traditional hard drives (HDDs) with spinning disks, and solid-state drives (SSDs) that have no moving parts and are faster. They are essential for saving, accessing, and managing the data that runs and supports your computer's functions.