Backing storage
What is backing storage?
- Backing storage is a hardware device where data is saved
- Data is lost when a computer is turned off / logged out
- Computers need backing storage to save data permanently
- Saved data might be include
- Word Document
- PowerPoint
- Photo
- Message
- App
- Computer Game
Why does data need to be saved?
- When a computer is turned off or logged off, it forgets everything.
- We need to save data so we can use it again later
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Where can data be saved?
External storage devices
Storage that’s outside the computer
- Disk
- Memory Card
- Flash Drive
Advantages
- You can carry your files anywhere
- You can share files between computers
Disadvantages
- Needs to be connected
- Easier to lose
Internal storage devices
Storage that’s inside the computer
- Hard Drive (HDD)
- Solid State Drive (SSD)
Advantages
- Always connected to the computer
- Safer from being lost
Disadvantages
- Harder to move between computers
- Harder to upgrade or replace
Cloud storage
Storage that’s on the internet
- There are many services that offer cloud storage
- iCloud
- Google Drive
- One Drive
- Dropbox
Advantages
- You can access files anywhere with internet
- Easy to share with others
- Saves space on your computer
Disadvantages
- Needs internet to work
- Can be slower to upload or download
- May have storage limits or cost money
