An external DVD drive is a portable device that connects to a computer or laptop via USB to read and write data on DVDs and CDs. Unlike internal drives, which are built into the computer, external drives can be easily moved and used with multiple devices. They are especially useful for laptops that lack a built-in optical drive. These drives can play movies, install software, and back up data. Many external DVD drives are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS. They often come with software for managing discs, making them a convenient option for users needing optical media access.