Explore how computers store everything from a school essay to a movie file. Learn the devices, sort them by type, practice unit conversions, and test your thinking with a HOTS quiz.
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A storage device is any hardware that saves digital data — like documents, photos, apps, or videos — so it can be used again later, even after the computer is turned off (for most types).
Storage the computer uses right now while it is running, such as RAM. It is very fast but usually temporary — data disappears when power is off.
Storage that keeps data permanently, even without power — such as an HDD, SSD, flash drive, or optical disc.
Devices built inside the computer case, like an internal HDD, SSD, or RAM module.
Devices that connect from outside and can usually be removed, like a USB flash drive, memory card, or external hard disk.
Stores data by magnetizing tiny areas on a spinning disk or tape.
A laser reads tiny pits and bumps on a spinning disc.
Data is stored electronically in flash memory chips — fast and durable.
Your files live on servers in a data center and are reached through the internet.
Storage capacity is measured in bytes. Each unit is 1,024 times bigger than the one before it.
| Unit | Symbol | Equal to | Typical example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bit | b | Smallest unit (0 or 1) | One on/off signal |
| Byte | B | 8 bits | One text character, like "A" |
| Kilobyte | KB | 1,024 B | A short email |
| Megabyte | MB | 1,024 KB | A few photos |
| Gigabyte | GB | 1,024 MB | A movie or a game |
| Terabyte | TB | 1,024 GB | A large external hard drive |
Five interactive tasks to help the concepts stick. Works with mouse, touchscreen, or an interactive flat panel.
25 questions — multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, calculations, and ordering. Think it through before you answer!
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