Learn how to effectively transfer a file to a flash drive with simple steps. Follow the guide to transfer your files securely and efficiently.
A flash drive is one of the most common ways to transfer information from one device to another. In this article, we will consider the entire process in detail, starting from preparing the USB drive for work and ending with solving common problems.
Preparing the flash drive for work
Before you start transferring files, it is important to make sure that the flash drive is ready for use.
Checking the functionality of the flash drive
- Connect the flash drive to the USB port of your computer;
- Make sure the device is recognized: a new removable disk should appear on the screen in Explorer (for Windows) or on the desktop (for macOS)
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- Check your flash drive for errors: open it and try to create a test file or folder.
Formatting the flash drive (if necessary)
If the flash drive is new or you want to clear it of all data, you can do this by following the steps below. But first, make a backup copy of all important files from the flash drive, since formatting will delete all data;
- Right-click on the flash drive icon and select “Format” (Windows) or “Erase” (macOS);
- Select file system:
- FAT32: compatible with most devices, but does not support files larger than 4GB;
- exFAT: supports large files and is compatible with Windows and macOS;
- NTFS: Good for Windows, but may be problematic on other devices;
- Click “Start” and wait for the process to complete.
Methods for transferring files to a flash drive
Drag and drop via Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS)
- Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS);
- Find the file or folder you want to transfer;
- Connect the flash drive and open it in a new window;
- Drag the file from the source folder to the flash drive window.
Copy and paste
- Select the file or folder you want to copy;
- Open the flash drive, right-click inside the window and select “Paste”.
- Select a file or folder;
- Press Ctrl + C (Windows) or Cmd + C (macOS) to copy;
- Open the flash drive;
- Press Ctrl + V (Windows) or Cmd + V (macOS) to paste.
Using the Command Line (for advanced users)
For Windows:
- Open Command Prompt: press Win + R, type cmd and press Enter;
- Enter the command copy “path_to_file” “path_to_flash_drive” and press Enter (without quotes);
For macOS:
- Open Terminal;
- Enter the command cp /path/to/file /path/to/flash drive and press Enter.
Using third-party programs (for advanced users)
- Total Commander (Windows): provides a convenient two-panel interface for file management. Download ;
- Far Manager (Windows): text file manager for advanced users. Download ;
- ForkLift (macOS): powerful file manager with advanced features. Download .
Possible errors and ways to eliminate them
The flash drive is not detected by the computer
Reasons:
- Faulty USB port;
- Problems with drivers;
- Physical damage to the flash drive.
Solutions:
- Try a different USB port or a different computer;
- Update USB controller drivers via Device Manager (Windows);
- Check the flash drive on another device.
Not enough space on flash drive
Solutions:
- Delete unnecessary files from the flash drive;
- Archive files using programs such as WinRAR or 7-Zip;
- Use a flash drive with a larger capacity.
The file is too large for the flash drive’s file system.
The FAT32 file system does not support files larger than 4 GB.
Solutions:
- Reformat the flash drive to the exFAT or NTFS file system;
- Split the file into parts using an archiver with a volume splitting function.
Access denied or insufficient rights
Reasons:
- User account restrictions;
- The file is copy protected.
Solutions:
- Run Explorer as administrator;
- Remove protection from the file: right-click on the file → “Properties” → uncheck “Read-only”;
- Check file and folder permissions.
The flash drive is infected with viruses
Solutions:
Files on the flash drive are open in programs or processes are still accessing the flash drive.
Solutions:
- Close all programs that may use files on the flash drive;
- Please use the Safely Remove Hardware feature before disconnecting.
Tips for Safe Use of Flash Drives
- On Windows: Click on the USB icon in the system tray and select “Eject device”;
- On macOS: Right-click on the flash drive icon and select Eject.
Regular backups
- Store important files not only on a flash drive, but also on another storage device or cloud service;
- Check your flash drive for errors using the built-in OS tools.
Updating the file system
- Use up-to-date file systems (exFAT, NTFS) for large file support and improved stability.