Remove the Old Drive

• Unlike desktop computers, laptops do not generally have additional empty ports where new drives can be placed. In order to install a DVD burner into your laptop, the old CD or DVD drive will have to first be removed. This is generally done by removing one or two screws from the unit, after which the drive will slide out with little difficulty. Set the screws aside so that they can be used when installing your new DVD burner.
  
  

Install the DVD Burner

• Make sure that you've purchased a DVD burner that is compatible with the laptop that you own. Though more laptop manufacturers are beginning to accept standardized components, some models of laptops simply aren't compatible with certain hardware component designs. To install your DVD burner, slide it into place on the now-empty drive slot on your laptop. Make sure that you press it all the way in so that it connects with the data interface in the laptop. Screw the screws that you had set aside back in so that they will hold the DVD burner in place and prevent it from becoming disconnected.
  
  

Install Drivers and Other Software

• Once your DVD burner has been physically installed, it's time to install the drivers so that the laptop can use it correctly. Boot up your laptop and wait for it to recognize the new hardware you have installed. It will ask you for the location of the drivers for the device. Either insert the driver disc that came with the laptop (the operating system should load temporary drivers as soon as it recognizes the hardware as a DVD drive), or browse to the location of downloaded drivers on your hard drive or a USB drive. Once the drivers have been installed, you should also install any third-party software that you wish to use for burning DVDs.