A DVD drive is a hardware component in computers and some standalone devices that reads and writes data to DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs). It allows users to play movies, install software, and store large amounts of data. DVD drives can be internal, built into the computer, or external, connected via USB. These drives use a laser to read the information encoded on the disc's surface. DVDs can hold significantly more data than traditional CDs, making them popular for video and software distribution. Many modern devices are moving towards digital downloads, but DVD drives remain useful for accessing physical media.