CDs and DVDs are considered to be the preferred media for storing certain types of files. CD-Rs usually allow for multiple recording sessions, however, the files cannot be deleted. Each CD-R Media can contain more than 600 MB of data. When it comes to DVD-R Media, it can contain more than 4.5 GB of data, which makes it suitable for storing video files. Blank CD-Rs can be usually purchased  for $0.50 to $1 each, based on how many you’re buying, the brand, and the quality while blank DVD-R disks normally cost a few dollars each.   CD-R or DVD-R containers (known as jewel cases) are sometimes included as part of the purchase.

Today’s computers are easier to operate with CD or DVD writers - and it is common to buy a computer that already has at least an internal CD writer. External writers are also available and simple to use with modern Mac or PC computers. These computers have ports known as Universal Serial Bus (USB) for simple and dependable connectivity of peripheral devices such as a printer, digital camera, CD/DVD-R writers, etc’. In a growing number of PCs, and in all new Macs, there is also a Firewire port, which allows for faster data transfer speeds. Certain computers include USB 2.0, which has similar data speed as some Firewire ports or, alternatively, you can add a USB 2.0 card.

In addition to the actual drive, you may need a DVD or CD burning software application. Commercial disk burning software is often preferred to the one that comes with the operating system of some computers.