Don't rush to throw it away. 10 unexpected ways to use old USB flash drive
Turn an ordinary flash drive into an indispensable gadget (photo: Pexels)
Do you think a USB flash drive is only for storing files? In fact, it's a versatile tool that can become a key to your computer, save you from viruses, and even speed up your work, states MakeUseOf.
Use a USB flash drive to lock and unlock your PC
Do you want to lock and unlock your computer with a physical key, just like in the movies? With USB Raptor, it's possible.
USB Raptor turns a USB flash drive into an access control device - a kind of key for your PC. When you leave, simply remove the USB drive and your computer will automatically lock. When you return? Insert the flash drive back in and the system will unlock. The program is available for Windows 11 and Windows 10.
It's similar to the standard Windows lock features, but you don't have to enter your password every time you turn it.
You can download USB Raptor for Windows here (free of charge).
Run portable apps from a USB drive
Normally, programs require installation, but that's not the case with portable apps.
Such programs and games can be simply copied to a flash drive and run on any compatible device, whether it's a 32-bit or 64-bit PC. This applies to browsers, email clients, messengers, and other useful tools.
It's especially handy to have a set of essential applications on hand that you can quickly launch on any available PC, for example, in the library or while traveling.
Speed up your PC with ReadyBoost (up to Windows 10)
If you have a slow hard drive, ReadyBoost technology can help speed up your system.
Once ReadyBoost is activated, the USB flash drive is used as a cache for frequently used files. If data is loaded faster from a USB flash drive, Windows will access it instead of the HDD.
It is important to note:
- ReadyBoost is only effective for slow HDDs (5400 rpm and below)
- Does not work with SSDs as they are faster than flash drives
- Requires a USB drive with at least 256 MB of free space
- To enable ReadyBoost, right-click on the flash drive in Windows Explorer, select Properties, click the ReadyBoost tab, and configure the settings.
ReadyBoost is no longer available in Windows 11, but it still works in Windows 10.
Back up flash drives with Win32 Disk Imager
If you actively use a flash drive, you should back up its contents. The easiest way is to use Win32 Disk Imager.
This program is usually used to burn disk images, but it also allows you to back up flash drives.
How to do it:
- Install and run Win32 Disk Imager
- Insert a USB storage device
- Select a location to save the image
- Click Read to create a copy of the data
- When you need to recover the contents of a flash drive, simply select the image and press Write.
You can download Win32 Disk Imager for Windows here (free)
Back up flash drives with Win32 Disk Imager (photo: MakeUseOf)
Save important documents for traveling
Do you often lose tickets, visas, or passport copies while traveling? A USB flash drive can save the day. The best way to avoid problems is to copy important documents to a USB flash drive and keep it handy at all times. Just put it in your wallet or bag.
- Scan your passport - it will help to recover documents faster in case of loss
- Save copies of reservations and tickets so you don't have to depend on the Internet
- Use an encrypted USB drive to protect your personal data.
This approach will save you unnecessary worries and help you avoid unpleasant situations while traveling.
Install any operating system from a USB drive
Bootable OS images on a USB flash drive allow you to install new operating systems on your computer. For example, you can create a bootable USB flash drive with Windows 11 using a special tool. This will be useful for restoring or even reinstalling Windows in case of failures.
You can also install Linux or even macOS from a USB drive.
Ensure anonymity online with Tails Live OS
Want to increase your privacy while surfing the web? Use Tails - one of the most secure operating systems.
Benefits of Tails:
- Doesn't save logs and files - data disappears after you turn off the computer
- Encrypts files, mail, and messages
- Uses the Tor network for anonymity.
Every time you load Tails from a USB flash drive, you start a new session without leaving any traces. This is a great solution for those who value anonymity on the Internet.
Run Live OS from a flash drive without installing it
You don't have to install a new OS on your computer but can run it from a USB flash drive.
What it gives you:
- You can carry a portable Windows or Live version of Linux with you
- Privacy - all data is erased when the PC is turned off
- Ready to use on any computer
- This is one of the most useful ways to use a USB drive.
Create a Windows password reset disk on USB
Forgot your Windows password? To avoid problems, create a password reset flash drive in advance.
How to do it:
- Insert a formatted flash drive
- Click "Start" and enter "Create a password reset disk"
- Open the utility and follow the instructions.
Keep this flash drive in a safe place to help you reset your password if you forget it.
Restore your PC after a crash or virus
It's always a good idea to have a flash drive with system recovery tools. It will help if:
- Windows does not boot
- The hard disk is damaged
- The PC is infected with viruses.
The best recovery tools are: Hiren's BootCD, SystemRescue, Knoppix, Ultimate Boot CD, Trinity Rescue Disk.
How to use: Download the utility, burn it to a USB flash drive, boot your PC from the flash drive, and run the recovery.
This is a great way to save data and bring your computer back to life.
