WD My Book Essential Desktop Hard Drive 500GB
- 500 GB desktop external drive
- USB 2.0, 480 Mbps interface
- 256-bit hardware encryption with password lock
- Automatic continuous backup with WD SmartWare
- Illuminated capacity gauge
- 2 year limited warranty
Updated 25 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A desktop backup drive for a Windows PC that copies files automatically as they change, with hardware encryption. The older USB interface makes large transfers slow.
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ASIN: B002JMWBRWCategory: External Hard Drives
Overview
Not a bare storage box, this WD drive runs SmartWare backup that copies every new or changed file automatically and shows progress on screen. A password lock with hardware encryption guards the data, and a lit gauge on the front shows free space.
Set and forget backup is the reason to buy: once configured, new files copy without any action. The USB generation it uses is slow for big video folders, and the drive formats for Windows out of the box.
Who it's for
Home users who forget to back up get continuous copies with simple file recovery. Mac owners and people shuttling big files between computers should choose a different drive.
Pros and cons
- Automatic continuous backup
- Hardware encryption with password
- Capacity gauge on the front
- Power saving sleep mode
- Slow older USB interface
- Windows ready, not Mac
- Power adapter not listed in the box
Performance notes
Transfer speed is limited by the older USB interface, so the disk inside waits on the cable. Backup runs in the background as files change, which spreads the load. Sleep mode and power sync with the computer cut energy use when idle.
Specifications
| Brand | Digital |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item weight | 2.7 pounds |
| Capacity & performance | |
| Digital Storage Capacity | 500 GB |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Hard Disk Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 2 year limited |
| Other details | |
| Hard Disk Form Factor | 3.5 inches |
| Hardware Platform | Windows PC |
| Data Transfer Rate | 480 Mbps |
| Additional Features | WD SmartWare backup, capacity gauge, GreenPower |
| BuiltIn Media | USB cable |
| Encryption | 256-bit hardware based |
Frequently asked questions
Does the WD My Book Essential back up automatically?
Yes. WD SmartWare makes a second copy whenever you add or change a file.
Can I lock the WD My Book Essential with a password?
Yes. It offers password protection with 256-bit hardware based encryption.
Does the WD My Book Essential work with a Mac?
It is plug and play with Windows PCs. WD points Mac users to a separate Mac version.