SanDisk Hard Drives & Storage

Elevate your data storage with our sleek external hard drives. Securely store your documents, photos, and videos on an external hard drive that you can take on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions: External Hard Drives

What is an external hard drive and how does it work?

An external hard drive is a portable storage device that helps you with any storage woes by storing digital data outside of a computer's internal storage. It connects to computers or devices through a USB or other ports for data transfer. The benefit is that external hard drives give you additional storage, backup, and mobility, making it easier for you to store and access files.

How can I choose the right external hard drive for my needs?

When selecting an external hard drive, consider how much storage you need, the capacity of the device, desired transfer speed, durability, and compatibility with all of your devices. Assess your storage needs, prioritize speed for large files, opt for portability if you're on the go, ensure durability for longevity, and confirm compatibility with your devices before making a purchase.

Can external hard drives be used with both Windows and Mac computers?

External hard drives are typically compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, though they may need to be formatted for cross-platform use. It’s relatively simple to reformat an external hard drive by connecting it to a computer, accessing Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac), selecting the drive, and choosing the appropriate file system format like exFAT for compatibility.

What are the benefits of using an external hard drive for backups?

External hard drives are game changers. They give you an offline storage solution without having to worry about running out of cloud storage, can accommodate a lot of data, make it easy for you to process on-the-go backups, and are user-friendly with simple plug-and-play functionality. With technology these days, external hard drives are a versatile and convenient option for keeping your data safe.

How can I ensure the longevity of my external hard drive?

To keep your external hard drive running for as long as you need it, store it in a cool, dry place. Safely eject it from computers to prevent data corruption and avoid overloading its capacity. Make sure you always back up your data and keep an eye out for any potential issues that could affect your system's performance or lifespan.

What is the difference between SSD and HDD external hard drives?

External hard drives come in two types: SSD and HDD. SSDs are typically faster and more durable but have lower capacity and are more expensive. On the other hand, HDDs are typically slower and less durable but offer higher capacity at a lower price. If you need a portable drive for carrying data around, an SSD is a better choice because of its speed and durability. However, if you're looking for cost-effective high-capacity storage, then an HDD is the way to go.

How do I transfer files to an external hard drive?

To transfer files to an external hard drive, first connect it to your computer. From there, select the files you want to transfer and either drag-and-drop or copy-paste them onto the drive. Make sure that your system recognizes the external hard drive or it won’t work. Once the transfer is complete, safely eject the drive to avoid any data loss or corruption.

Can I use an external hard drive with my gaming console?

Of course. The benefit is that you can increase the storage capacity of your gaming console by using external hard drives. Check your console's specifications to see if it's compatible since you may need to format the drive before integrating it with the console. By using an external hard drive, you’ll be able to store more games, downloads, and media.

What should I do if my external hard drive is not recognized by my computer?

If your external hard drive is not being recognized, troubleshoot the issue by checking the USB connection and trying a different port. It sounds simple, but restarting your computer could also help. If the issue continues, consider testing the hard drive on another computer to see if it’s a problem with the hard drive or the computer.

Are there external hard drives with wireless connectivity?

Yes! There are wireless external hard drives that transfer files without a cord or cable. Wireless external hard drives give you the convenience of accessing files across multiple devices and are ideal for scenarios where wired connections are impractical. However, they may have slower transfer speeds and require a stable wireless network.