What is a storage device? Well, a storage device is a piece of computer equipment in which information can be stored on. These computing hardware can be used for storing, porting, and extracting objects and data as well as holding and storing information both temporarily and permanently to a computer or server. Now under the storage device umbrella includes internal storage, external storage, and cloud storage.
Internal Storage
Internal storage can mean several varying things but most often refers to the computer’s internal hard drive as this is the primary storage device and is used to store files and applications for a user. Internal storage may also refer to flash memory, too. Flash memory stores data electronically rather than magnetically like a flash drive but overall refers to the same purpose, though, flash memory is most commonly used by smartphones. Internal storage devices are used to hold the operating system for the computer to access the input and output devices, store software that is used, and allow applications to be quickly loaded into memory for use. Even if the computer is ever moved, it will still keep all of its saved data as long as the storage device is inside the computer case.
External Storage
External storage refers to the devices outside the computer that stores information. This can mean floppy disks, portable hard drives, flash drives, and tape drives. These devices are stand-alone and are completely separate from the computer. They connect to the computer via a cable into a port such as a USB port. It then attaches to the system and appears as an extra drives letter to export files to. External storage devices are used to store and move data from one location to another and transfer files by a drag and drop method as well as safely back up save data that is stored internally.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage or personal cloud storage (PCS) refers to local network-attached storage devices that allows users to store data, photos, videos, music, or other files and is specifically optimized for media streaming purposes. This storage requires saving data to an off-site third-party storage system such as Apple, Google, or Dropbox. Cloud storage devices are used by users so that they can access their data from anywhere with internet on a remote database, no matter the device.It can alos be used as a way for users to have all their data in a system that won’t take up storage on their computer and be able to share the data in a simple way.
All sources are linked in the headings.
Emily Ramirez 