Floppy Disk

Definition

A floppy disk or floppy diskette is a type of disk storage composed of a disk of thin and flexible magnetic storage medium, sealed in a rectangular plastic enclosure lined with fabric that removes dust particles.

Why It Matters

For decades, the floppy disk was the primary method for distributing software, transferring files, and backing up data. It represents a major era in personal computing history.

Contextual Example

In the 1980s and 90s, you would install a new program from a series of floppy disks. The most common size was the 3.5-inch disk, which typically held 1.44 MB of data.

Common Misunderstandings

• Floppy disks are now completely obsolete, having been replaced by CDs, DVDs, USB flash drives, and internet downloads.
• The "save" icon used in most software is a stylized representation of a floppy disk.