Should I use a solid state drive? (SSD)

Almost all modern computers are sold with a small capacity solid state drive and can be paired with a traditional hard drive for extra storage demands.  SSDs are available in varying capacities up to 4TB (from Samsung).  The cost of SSDs has decreased dramatically due to popular demand and competing manufacturers.  They are more affordable than ever before. 

Traditional hard disk storage devices in a computer are made of moving parts that can be damaged and will eventually fail.  Signs of a failing hard drive include clicking noises, grinding sounds, hissing, loss of power, etc.  Traditional hard drives are prone to slowing down as they age and are a major cause of overall performance issues. 

There arose a need to store data differently without the use of moving parts.  This new type of data storage uses no moving parts, performs faster, is reliable and durable, and can withstand falls, drops, and motion while being powered on.  This new storage technology is called a solid-state disk or SSD and it is built from NAND flash technology. 

Some modern computers may have an M.2 adapter for smaller SSDs.  The M.2 form factor has become more common with today’s computers and uses the PCI-Express technology.  Another technology that has been introduced is NVME.  NVME (NVMe, NVM Express, or Non-Volatile Memory Host Controller Interface Specification) is a newer faster technology that has faster read and write speeds when compared to standard SATA III SSDs. 

Your existing computer can be imaged with a new SSD to gain new life if it supports SATA III.  Your existing hard drive must be in good working condition for a successful image to be created.  An image is created using software that captures your existing software and settings from your existing hard drive.  Then, the image is used to copy those settings and applications to the new SSD.  Another option would be to install a new SSD and then have Windows and all your programs be installed as if your computer was brand new. 

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