A DVD-ROM and a DVD+RW may look identical, but they offer different functionalities.
There are many different types of discs for computers. One of the most common types is the DVD. These ubiquitous storage media even come with their own list of acronyms such as "ROM" and "RW." The names may seem complex, but once you know what they mean, the uses are clear.
DVD-ROM
A DVD-ROM refers to the most common type of DVD that can be purchased. "ROM" stands for "read-only memory" and simply means that the content on the disc can be read but not altered. Movies and computer programs are sold on DVD-ROMs. You can view the movies and use the programs, but you are unable to add to or alter the content on the disc.
DVD+RW
DVD+RWs are typically sold as blank discs. They can be inserted into a DVD recording device and used to store a variety of files like computer documents or videos. The "RW" stands for "rewritable." This means that you can put data on the disc, use the disc and then return the disc to your recorder to add more data to it.
The Difference
DVD-ROMs are discs that can only display or allow you to interact with the information stored on it. DVD+RWs allow you to put your own data on them with the ability to later alter this data. This is the main difference between the two types; otherwise, they both can store the same amount of information and are read by the same kind of hardware.
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