Pros and Cons of Upgrading Your Hard Drive

If you are thinking about upgrading your computer's hard drive, you should first reconsider whether or not this is really necessary. If you do decide to upgrade it, you will have to make sure it is the appropriate size and type for your computer and software.

The benefits of upgrading your hard drive include more storage space and the elimination of any mechanical problems your current drive is experiencing. If your current hard disk is still functioning properly, purchasing a new unit before it fails will reduce the chance of losing data when it does fail. A different hard drive may also be faster and/or quieter, depending upon the model and brand.

Drawbacks of upgrading the HD include the cost, the need to transfer data from the old hard drive, and the need to install an operating system on the new drive, which can be time-consuming (or impossible, if your operating system disk/CD has failed or been misplaced). You also may not actually need to replace your hard drive, unless it has failed mechanically. It is quite possible that your current hard disk is holding a large amount of data and software you rarely or never use, which could be deleted to free up space. Using Windows 98, a 5GB hard drive can be quite suitable if it is utilized efficiently. There are also alternatives for increasing storage space, such as using a Zip or Jazz drive.

If you decide that you do indeed need to replace your hard drive, you should determine if you want to keep the old drive in your computer, or replace it and transfer any necessary data to the new drive. Many computers are equipped to hold two hard drives, although some compact models might not have enough space to fit a 2nd drive inside them. Some computers also may require additional internal cables and/or a mounting bracket to hold a 2nd hard disk.