Definition

• DVD+RW drives are hardware that read and write DVD disks. They support a variety of disk formats including DVD+RW, DVD+R and DVD-R disks.
  
  

Function

• DVD+RW drives enable you to read DVD disks including DVD movies and rewritable disks. Because these drives can also burn disks, they are ideal for creating home movies and burning files to DVD disks.
  
  

Types

• Speed is one of the common factors that distinguishes one DVD+RW drive from another. Some support maximum speeds of 8x while others support 12x speeds and more. Other than performance, some DVD+RW drives are internal to a computer while others are portable, which means you can use them with any supported computer.
  
  

Installation

• Installing a DVD+RW drive varies depending on the model and make (and whether it is internal or portable). Internal drives are connected to the motherboard of your computer while portable hard drives are generally connected using a USB or Firewire cable. Refer to your DVD+RW's documentation for the proper installation steps.
  
  

Misconceptions

• DVD+RW drives are not portable hard drives. Unlike hard drives, you cannot store files and folders on a DVD+RW drive unless you use a DVD disk.