BTW -- I am using Windows 7.

The more I read, the more I think, yes, it does have to format if I want to be able to add and delete files to it.

One more important question -- do I need to "finalize" the disc when I am done and before giving them to other people? If so, how do I do this? And what is the purpose of doing this?

I think you're thinking too much about it, it should be very simple.

-Start Windows Explorer
-Put the copies of the files you want on the CD into one (perhaps new?) folder on your hard drive if they're not already together.
-Go to that folder and highlight the files. To highlight multiple files, hold down the CTRL key as you click.
-Just under the menu bar you should see the word "Burn"
-Click Burn and follow the remaining instructions.

EDIT
I'm assuming you're creating data disks and not audio disks to play in audio devices. Come back if it's the second one, the steps may be different (I do audio disks with other software, not with windows. I'm not sure if windows gives the option of data or audio formats)

This post was edited by snidely on Tue, Feb 18, 14 at 12:45

Ok -- this will eliminate the formatting doing this way?

and yes, this is data (excel and PDF files) not audio...

Using CDs is just fine, but did you consider using a thumb drive? A 2G or 4G drive is inexpensive and is is easily appendable.

It has been a quite while, but I had experiences where on occasion work product stored on a CD-RW couldn't be read by all systems. However, if the work product was archived on a CD it was OK. Never did spend enough time to figure out why.

Just remember to use the Safely Remove Hardware feature with a drive.

DA

See first post DA - making 10 copies.

Thumb drives or SD cards are fine, of course, but are more expensive than CD blanks that should be no more than 30 cents each.

Sometimes users might spend a little extra for security, and convenience particularly when the data is important to them. I just shared the thoughts. Like all decisions here on the forum the final decision is not ours.

DA

Typically, sensitive data warranting "security" doesn't get reproduced and distributed on 10 CDs by a novice user. Besides, files put onto a CD can be encrypted if it's really necessary.

In a non-work context, I think people overstate the need for password protection and encryption. Same is probably true for many work-related files too.

Of course everyone makes their own choices. As I've said before, I try not to spread or suffer from unwarranted feelings of risk.

I didn't see the question about "Finalizing" addressed. I also have wondered why there doesn't seem to be the option to finalize a DVD anymore. I thought it was important to do that. I'm working with both a W-7 and W-8.1 machine and use their programs. Is there program I can download or buy that does it all?

Also, The program I had on my XP-HP machine which I loved stopped working along with the drive so when I had a new drive put in the tech downloaded Shampoo to burn discs. No finalize there either. I miss my old program..... And by the way, this machine is no longer on line and only used for printing and working with photos!

TIA.........
MsMary

I just shared my thoughts. Since I don't feel superior I don't push my position onto anyone.

DA

You seem to like to say that suggestions that differ from yours are offered only by people who feel superior?

Maybe it's because your view on any particular matter isn't necessarily the only one. Does that bother you?

Huh? Not what I said. However, think as you wish. I will leave you to stir the pot with someone else as I'm done with this.

DA

This post was edited by damccoy on Wed, Feb 19, 14 at 14:39