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Computer Help and Support

eppur_se_muova

(42,948 posts)

3. Yes, get a USB CD/DVD with WR capability. That allows you to download install DVDs for your OS, and make backups.

Reply to usonian (Reply #2)

Thu Jun 25, 2026, 12:16 AM

Jun 25

If you've got a lot to back up, get Blu-Ray. I try to only use USB drives for media now; that way there only has to be one working drive in the house for multiple computers.

Downside: READING from media is s-l-o-w, compared to SSD.

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usonian

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My CD player is dying and I need a new one. [View all] thucythucy Jun 24 OP

I've given up on analog media. OAITW r.2.0 Jun 24 #1

Go with the flow. usonian Jun 24 #2

Yes, get a USB CD/DVD with WR capability. That allows you to download install DVDs for your OS, and make backups. eppur_se_muova Jun 25 #3

Beware of 3rd party sellers on Amazon (for just about anything). I got an external Dell DVD player progree Jun 25 #4