DIY Guide: Using Internal Drives as External Storage.

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If you want to increase your computer's storage without adding new memory drives, or if you have an old internal hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD) lying around, you can convert it to an external drive for file transfers, backups, or extra storage. Converting an internal drive to an external drive is an economical method of increasing storage capacity.

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This detailed guide teaches you how to convert your internal drive into a fully functional external drive.

Step 1: Determine what type of internal drive

  • 2.5" SATA HDD/SSD (Laptop Drive) 
  • 3.5" SATA HDD (Desktop Drive) 
  • M.2 SATA or NVMe SSD 
  • IDE HDD

Step 2: Purchase the Right Enclosure or Adapter

Step 3: Install the Drive Into the Enclosure

For SATA HDDs and SSDs (2.5" or 3.5"):

  1. Open the enclosure (usually with screws or a sliding mechanism).
  2. Align the SATA connectors on the drive with those in the enclosure.
  3. Firmly insert the drive into the SATA port.
  4. Secure the drive with screws (if any).
  5. Close the enclosure.

For M.2 SSDs:

  1. Open the M.2 enclosure.
  2. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot with a little elevated angle.
  3. Gently press it down and secure it with the provided screw or latch.
  4. Close the enclosure.

Step 4: Connect the Drive to Your Computer

Now connect it to your computer:

  1. Use the provided USB cable to plug the enclosure into a USB port on your PC.
  2. If using a 3.5" HDD, plug in the external power adapter with the enclosure.
  3. Your computer should detect the drive automatically.

Step 5: Format the Drive (If required)

You may need to format if your drive is not recognized or has old data.

  1. Press Win + X and select "Disk Management".
  2. Look for the new drive in the list (it may be labeled as “Unallocated”).
  3. Right-click the drive and select "New Simple Volume".
  4. Follow the wizard and select:
    • NTFS (best for Windows-only use).
    • exFAT (for compatibility with Windows and macOS).
  5. Click "Finish" to format the drive.

Conclusion

Repurposing an internal hard drive or SSD as an external drive is a great way to use old storage devices. Whether you use it for file transfers, backups, or additional storage, this easy procedure can help you increase storage capacities and save money. Additionally, buying an external drive directly is more expensive than buying an internal drive.

Employing an SSD or internal hard drive as an external drive is more cost-effective, but it's still advisable to consider the drawbacks that accompany it like increased wear and tear, durability, etc. It is advised to check all the factors and choose what fits you the best.

 

 

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