Every computer includes a hard drive to store important data like the operating system, files, and applications. Unlike memory or random-access memory (RAM), which accesses data you need right away, your hard drive (storage) houses data you want to save but don't need to tap into immediately.
You may be wondering, “Do I need to upgrade my hard drive?" This is a question Asurion Experts hear often as they help millions of customers get the most out of their tech. Here's their guide on why you may need to upgrade your computer hard drive.
Signs you may need to upgrade your hard drive
If your computer has been running slow, or if you're having trouble downloading files or backing up data, your hard drive may be nearly or completely full. You can free up space by deleting files, photos, or videos you don't need, but if your computer still doesn't speed up or you're seeing error notifications, you may need a hard drive upgrade.
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Options for upgrading your hard drive
There are two ways to upgrade your hard drive:
- Add an additional, external hard drive.
- Replace your existing internal hard drive.
External hard drives
External, or portable, hard drives are easy to attach to your computer—most plug in with a single USB cable. They're an inexpensive way to add more storage and back up important files.
Internal hard drives
To upgrade your internal hard drive, you'll need to take your computer apart and disconnect the motherboard. We recommend contacting an expert for help with one of these two options:
- Hard disk drives (HDDs): This affordable, more established type of hard drive comes in a variety of sizes to fit your system requirements and storage needs.
- Solid-state drives (SSDs): This type of hard drive is newer and retrieves data more quickly than HDDs, so it costs a bit more.
If you've tried these steps and still need a little help, we're right around the corner. Schedule a repair at the nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store and our certified experts can get your device back up and running as soon as the same day.
Protect your computer from the unexpected
With the Asurion Home+® protection plan, you can keep your computer—plus all of your other favorite home tech—running at their best. You'll not only get reliable protection, but also 24/7 access to tech experts who can answer questions about everything from setting up your wireless mouse to troubleshooting your hard drive. Learn more about an Asurion Home+ desktop computer warranty and how you can get peace-of-mind electronics protection.
