{
  "id": 19194342,
  "title": "Your USB flash drives don't have to collect dust — here are 6 ways I use mine beyond file storage",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/09/your-usb-flash-drives-dont-have-to-collect-dust-here-are-6-ways-i-use",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-09T18:30:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "XDA Developers",
    "slug": "xda-developers",
    "url": "https://www.xda-developers.com/usb-flash-drives-dont-collect-dust-ways-use-mine-beyond-file-storage/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "USB flash drives may seem limited to storage and file transfers, but they offer a myriad of other uses. One such use is creating a portable Windows installation, aptly named Windows To Go. This allows you to run an entire OS on any computer by simply plugging in your flash drive. However, a fast flash drive is necessary for smooth operation. Another practical use is setting up a low-cost NAS equivalent. By connecting a decent flash drive to a router with a USB port and enabling Server Message Block (SMB), you can access shared files across various devices, turning your flash drive into a personal cloud storage solution. If you frequently work on different systems, consider carrying useful apps on your flash drive. Portable versions of browsers, text editors, image viewers, office suites, and editing software can run directly from the drive, leaving minimal trace on the host system. In case of computer boot failures, a USB drive stocked with troubleshooting tools like SystemRescue or Hiren's BootCD PE can save the day. Lastly, flash drives can expand your TV's storage capacity, allowing you to install more apps and even stream movies locally. By utilizing tools such as USB Raptor, you can also create a password-protected key to safeguard your personal files, providing an extra layer of security. With these innovative uses, USB flash drives are far from relics of the past – they're versatile tools capable of enhancing your digital experience.",
  "summary": "That $5-10 flash drive you kept ignoring for years can be put to better use in no time.",
  "key_points": [
    "Create portable Windows installation called Windows To Go",
    "Set up low-cost NAS equivalent using flash drive and SMB",
    "Carry useful apps on flash drive for different systems"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}