USB flash drive

A portable data-storage device that stores data in flash memory and connects to a computer through a USB interface.

NAND flash memory: A nonvolatile memory technology that stores data in arrays of electrically programmable cells. Most flash drives use NAND cells to retain data without power.
Nonvolatile memory: Memory that retains stored information when electrical power is removed. Flash drives depend on persistence without a continuous power supply.
File transfer: The movement of digital files between storage locations or devices. Flash drives make offline transfer between nearby computers straightforward.
External hard drive: A portable storage device that uses magnetic disks to store data. Unlike a flash drive, it stores data magnetically on rotating platters.
Flash memory controller: A processor that manages flash-memory operations, error correction, and communication with a host device. It translates USB requests into the operations required by the drive’s memory.
USB: A standard for connecting devices and transferring data and power between them. The drive’s defining connection is part of this broader interface standard.
Bootable USB: A USB storage device prepared to start a computer or run an operating-system installer. A flash drive can carry boot files for installation or recovery.
External solid-state drive: A portable storage device that uses solid-state memory and commonly connects over USB. It shares flash storage but usually offers greater capacity and performance.
USB mass storage device class: A USB protocol class that lets storage devices present block-based data to a host. It defines how many flash drives expose storage to computers.
File system: A structure and set of rules for organizing files on a storage volume. A formatted flash drive uses one to make stored files accessible.

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