In computing, what is commonly known as a solid state drive?

A solid state drive (SSD) is a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data, as opposed to the magnetic storage used in traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). SSDs have no moving parts, which allows for faster data access and improved reliability compared to HDDs. The technology behind SSDs enables them to read and write data much faster, resulting in quicker boot times for operating systems and faster loading of applications.

Furthermore, SSDs are typically more energy-efficient, produce less heat, and are less susceptible to physical shock, making them a popular choice for laptops and portable devices. The reference to flash memory in the context of SSDs indicates its role as the primary technology enabling the high-speed performance and reliability associated with solid state drives. These characteristics differentiate SSDs from other storage solutions, confirming that the term "solid state drive" specifically refers to SSDs.