A CD writer is also commonly referred to as a CD burner or a CD recorder. These devices allow users to write, burn or record data onto a CD. They are typically integrated into computers or laptops, but standalone units also exist. Some other synonyms for CD writer include optical drive, disc drive, and compact disc writer. While CD writers were once the primary method of transferring data, they have largely been replaced by newer technologies such as USB drives and cloud storage. However, they are still useful for burning music, creating backups or for situations where access to the internet is limited.