A solid-state drive (SSD) is a type of storage device used in computers that stores data permanently inside an integrated circuit, typically using flash memory. Unlike traditional hard-disk drives (HDDs), SSDs dont have moving parts, which makes them faster and quieter. SSDs work using flash memory to store and access non-volatile data, and they offer extremely fast data storage and retrieval. They are smaller and lighter than HDDs, giving computer manufacturers more design flexibility. SSDs are used in almost all new laptops and desktop computers for non-volatile data storage.

Some key advantages of SSDs over HDDs include faster read/write speeds, almost instant boot and load times, and more durability. SSDs are also more power-efficient than HDDs since they have no moving parts. High-performance servers, laptops, desktops, or any application that needs to deliver information in real-time can benefit from solid-state drive technology.

SSDs store data with a newer technology than HDDs. Like USB drives, SSDs use flash memory to store data, which is accessed digitally, though SSDs work much faster. SSDs are smaller in size in comparison with HDDs and can even be mounted to the motherboard directly. SSDs depend on flash-based memory, with NAND being the most popular flash type. While HDDs have a mechanical arm to read and write data, an SSD uses a processor (controller) to read and write data.

In summary, an SSD is a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store and access non-volatile data. It is faster, more durable, and more power-efficient than traditional hard-disk drives.