A CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory) is a type of compact disc that contains data that can be read but not written or erased. CD-ROMs are commonly used to distribute software, including operating systems, games, and other applications, as well as storing and displaying media such as audio, video, and text documents. CD-ROMs are read using a CD-ROM drive, which is a device that is capable of reading the data stored on the disc. CD-ROM drives can be found in computers, game consoles, and other electronic devices.