Deleting old data to make space for newer files and folders is no longer necessary with the use of external drives. This is because external hard drives are much more affordable than they once were. There are numerous benefits to storing everything you need, but that's not to say there aren't any downsides. Keeping track of externally connected devices such as printers and scanners can be difficult enough, without the risk of accidentally disconnecting a storage device containing important files and folders. 27 Aug 2009