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Frequently Asked Questions About USB Flash Drives
Everything you need to know about ultra portable storage
By Mark Casey Mark Casey Writer Mark Casey was a Lifewire writer who specialized in computing and technology, including reviewing PC components and peripherals. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on July 24, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Accessories & Hardware HDD & SSD The Quick Guide to Webcams Keyboards & Mice Monitors Cards Printers & Scanners Raspberry Pi Portable USB flash drives remain one of the most curious computer peripherals available. Some people wonder what these are used for, while others wonder what these can't be used for. This flash drive FAQ covers basic questions about those miniature memory sticks you often see dangling from people's key chains. Maxim Trukhin / Getty Images What' s the Difference Between a USB Flash Drive and a Regular Flash Drive
A flash drive is solid-state drive (SSD) technology that stores data in a manner similar to the typical hard drive found in most PCs but without moving parts. Flash drives come in many forms, including external storage devices, portable USB drives, and as the primary storage drive in some laptops. A USB flash drive is the industry term for a small, extremely portable flash drive that connects to a computer through a USB port. USB flash drives are so small that some are designed to attach to a key ring. What Do People Use USB Flash Drives For
Because of their extreme portability — most weigh an ounce or less — USB flash drives are often used to transfers files between computers at different locations. As flash storage capacity has increased, USB flash drives have become useful for backing up important files from a PC's hard drive and storing the files in a secure location. What Are the Benefits of Using a USB Flash Drive
USB flash drives are popular today because this storage media is faster, easier to use, and more convenient than other methods of file transfer or storage. kyoshino / Getty Images Transferring files from computer to computer can be complicated. In some cases, the two devices need to be next to each other. With a USB flash drive, that isn't necessary. The transfer process is as simple as plugging the flash drive into a computer, then dragging and dropping files and folders onto it. Then, plug the same flash drive into a different computer and drag and drop the files wherever you want. What Does Mbps Mean and Why Is It Important
Mbps is an abbreviation for megabits per second. It refers to the speed at which files are transferred between two devices — in many cases, a USB flash drive and a computer. A USB 2.0 flash drive transports data at a maximum rate of 480 Mbps. If it's transfer speed you are after, look for a USB 3.0 flash drive. USB 3.0 is blazing fast and transfers data at a maximum rate of 5 gigabits per second (Gbps). A USB 3.0 flash drive is ten times as fast as a USB 2.0 flash drive. Speed is important when transferring large files or entire movies. How Much Space Is on USB Flash Drives
Drives are almost exclusively available in the gigabyte range these days. You used to be able to find 512 MB flash drives. Due to lowered costs and increased transfer speeds, such a comparatively small capacity is outdated. Sizes typically range from 8 gigabytes to a massive 2 terabytes, with a sliding price scale to go along with it. You can get the smaller capacity drives for less than $20, but a 2 terabyte USB flash drive can cost hundreds of dollars. How Can USB Flash Drives Be So Small
USB flash drives use solid-state flash memory technology, which stores data without using moving parts. Over the years, solid-state memory has decreased the size required to store data many times, resulting in more memory being stored on a small memory chip. How Secure Are USB Flash Drives
If you're storing important information about your job or valuable copyrighted files, you need the encryption features available on some USB flash drives to protect those files from prying eyes. Encryption is not a standard feature on USB flash drives, but it is available. It can be invaluable if you leave the flash drive on a busy train or in a locker. Physically, USB flash drives are incredibly robust. Without moving parts, the lightweight flash drives can withstand being jostled around, dropped, or stepped on without sustaining internal damage. Most also come in a sturdy encasement that can withstand plenty of roughhousing. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Select the Right USB Flash Drive USB (Universal Serial Bus): Everything You Need to Know How to Choose an External Hard Drive How to Connect Steam Deck to a PC The 10 Best USB Flash Drives of 2022 USB-C vs. USB 3: What's the Difference? What Is USB 3.0? (USB 3.0 Definition) How to Install Windows 7 From USB (Flash Drive, Ext HD) What Is a Flash Drive? SanDisk Extreme Go Flash Drive Review: Satisfying 3.0 Transfer Speeds The 9 Best External Hard Drives, Tested by Lifewire The 10 Best Hard Drives for Gaming in 2022 SanDisk Extreme Pro Solid State Flash Drive Review: Underperforming but still lightning fast The 5 Best USB Flash Drives to Store Music in 2022 USB 2.0 vs USB 3.0 External Hard Drive vs. Flash Drive: What’s the Difference? Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies