This article covers the USB C and Thunderbolt 3 connector system types in detail, including a comparison of these two USB types.

What Are USB C and Thunderbolt 3?

USB C is an industry-standard connector system that allows you to charge your devices, as well as transfer data from one device to another. This connection type was developed by the USB Implementers Forum (UIF), an organization that has been at the forefront of the creation and promotion of USBs. In contrast to its predecessors, appearance-wise, the USB C is oval in shape and has a connector that is quite similar to that of a micro-USB connector. USB C not only offers better transfer speeds but also more increased power, as well as more pins than previous versions.

Thunderbolt 3 is a data transfer protocol that was developed by Intel in collaboration with Apple. The previous versions of the Thunderbolt USB made use of the Mini Display Port (MDP) for the connector. However, Intel changed this in the Thunderbolt 3 cable and introduced the same design as that of the USB C connector. This transition was made because the only manufacturer that used Thunderbolt before was Apple. The Mini Display Port had also been replaced by USB C in almost all newer laptops, so Intel decided to support the USB C connector, as well. This is the reason why Thunderbolt 3 connectors bear a significant resemblance to USB C.

Differences between USB C and Thunderbolt 3

Now that we have looked at detailed descriptions of the USB C and Thunderbolt 3 connection types, we will cover some of the differences between these connection types, despite a striking resemblance in appearance.

1. Data Transfer and Connection

In terms of data transfer speeds, Thunderbolt 3 edges out USB C. Thunderbolt 3 supports up to 40 Gpbs of transfer rates, while USB C works at 10 Gpbs of speed. Thus, Thunderbolt 3 is four times faster than USB C, provided that your system can support these speeds. Another excellent feature that comes with Thunderbolt 3 is its ability to support two high-quality displays, particularly in the 4K range. USB C contains the feature called Alt Mode that allows this connection type to perform this function; however, this is an optional feature that must be enabled and will only work if it is supported by your computer system.

2. Daisy-Chaining

Another feature that gives Thunderbolt 3 an advantage over USB C is that Thunderbolt 3 allows users to daisy chain several devices at once. Daisy-chaining occurs by connecting several devices in series, one after another. The availability of this feature (or lack thereof) is due to the design structure of both types. Thunderbolt 3 comes with a peer-to-peer structure, while USB C comes with a host-to-user structure, which does not support the connection of several devices in a chain with your host computer. Thunderbolt 3, however, allows users to connect up to six devices in a chain.

3. Device Support

Both USB C and Thunderbolt 3 can be used to connect to a variety of devices, such as printers, laptops, smartphones, and more. Even so, the Thunderbolt 3 again takes the edge over USB C because it offers support to PCIe devices. PCIe is an interface that allows you to connect to components such as graphics, memory devices, Wi-Fi and RAID cards, and so on. This means that Thunderbolt 3 users can connect GPUs and external graphics cards, which gives your computer an additional boost.

4. Compatibility

Thunderbolt 3 is more compatible with USB C. Thunderbolt 3 allows USB C devices to be plugged into its own ports by using its alternative option, where it switches to the USB protocol and will now be able to support USB C. This, however, is not the case with USB C ports, which do not work with Thunderbolt 3 devices.

So, Thunderbolt 3 or USB C?

The decision over which port type to use – Thunderbolt 3 or USB C – comes down to your personal usage preferences and needs. It is important to note neither of these connection types is the winner; your choice depends on what you want. USB C is exceptionally fast and powerful, and this connection type allows you to transfer HD movies in seconds. If there is no need for connecting GPUs or two high-resolution displays, then USB C will meet the needs of most users, and it is more cost-effective than its counterpart.

Juice jacking is very much real. It’s not a threat-mongering. Hackers can infect your smartphone or laptop through the USB port. Especially when you’re using a public place, such as a charging kiosk at your favorite coffee shop or airport, your device is vulnerable to different forms of hack attacks. That’s where USB data blockers can become a real asset.

This nifty gadget plugs into your USB charging port and protects against data leakage. How? You may ask. Simply by blocking the data pins on the USB port of your cable. This way, there’s no chance of data flow from your device. In a way, it works as a firewall between the public USB port and your device.

Below are our best USB Data Blockers to date.

1. PortaPow 3rd Gen USB Data Blocker

The PortaPow USB data blocker is undoubtedly the king of the ring right now. Based in the UK, PortaPow was the first manufacturer to introduce the world to USB data blockers. Its flagship 3rd gen data blocker is just as efficient as it gets – and more!

To begin with, it’s a small portable device. Feels nice and durable in hand. Also, it fits right in the pocket. So, you can take it along anywhere you want. Quality is nice. We didn’t notice any loose or sloppy parts. As for security, the male end of the plug has no data pins. This means there’s no way any rogue charging port may connect to your device.

Also, it doesn’t just efficiently protect against viruses but also provides high-speed charging. That’s because it features a smart charge chip, letting you charge your device in no time. Moreover, it auto switches between the Apple, Samsung, and Universal standards because of the smart chip to make sure that whichever device you attach works without any problem.

So, whether you’re an android or iOS user, the Portapow USB data blocker will provide a charge at up to 2.4 Amperes. That said, the price of this little hardware is reasonable too. Highly recommended for frequent travelers and everyday office use.

Buy Here: Amazon

2. EDEC USB Data Blocker

On the second spot is the EDEC USB data blocker. It secures your device from hackers as well as viruses. The best thing about this little piece of tech is that it works with any USB port on any device. However, you will need a cable that goes to a standard Type-A connector.

Unlike the PortaPow’s data blocker, this one comes in a metal exterior casing. This makes it more durable. To keep the weight low, the insides are made of ABS plastic. So it’s lightweight yet durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear without leaving you in the lurch.

We didn’t notice any increase or drop in power charging capabilities when using this blocker. That’s rare because usually, these devices lower the power charging rate. Besides Android and iOS devices, the EDEC USB data blocker also works great with Google Pixel.

Our only complaint is the sharp outer edges of the design. A little heat shrink or maybe a filing down would have made the design smoother. But it’s a minor gripe. Overall, the EDEC USB data blocker does what it’s supposed to do. It is small, inexpensive, and efficient.

Buy Here: Amazon

3. USB defender Data Blocker

Coming in at third place is the USB Defender. Like the previously mentioned data blockers, this one is just as efficient, lightweight, and functional. Public charging stations or a friend plugging their phone into your laptop for a charge aren’t a threat anymore!

The USB Defender is elegantly designed in a compact shape. Noticeably smaller and adorable than others on this list. The outer casing is made of plastic and comes with smooth edges to avoid any inconvenience. During our tests, we noticed the plastic isn’t much durable. Take proper care, and it will last.

As for compatibility, it works with any device that utilizes a standard USB plug to charge or transfer data. This includes all the Android phones, iPhones, tablets, and other similar devices. So yes, it supports fast charging function as well.

For the price, the value this little piece of tech brings to the table is excellent. It is easy to carry around and functions just as advertised to give you much needed peace of mind when using public charging ports.

Buy Here: Amazon

4. ChargeDefence Data Blockers

If you’re looking to buy more than one data blocker, this pack of five may just be your best shot. Low priced, multi-colored, and coming from a reliable mobile security brand, what more can one ask for?

When you take these USB data blockers out of the package, the first thing you notice is the bigger size. Although lightweight, this data blocker looks slightly bigger in hand when compared to others. And honestly, we are not a fan of the curvy design either. But, the curves do aid your hand when plugging it in or out of the port.

These data blockers support USB 2.0 standards and are totally plug and play. This means it works like a charm on all mobile devices and operating systems without any driver installation. Charging speed is also fast – almost double the normal time.

Overall, it instantly removes any data sharing capability between your device and a charging port. So, this pack of five is an excellent investment for the entire family. Buy one for your family or gift it to your loved ones!

Buy Here: Amazon

5. E-SDS Data Theft Kit (Includes 1 USB Data Blocker)

Behold the Spy-Fy Privacy Kit. It’s a gift box that doesn’t just contain a USB data blocker but five additional smart gadgets to secure your privacy. These include three webcam covers, two RFID credit card protectors, and, of course, a USB jack defender. From bank cards to smartphones as well as laptops, this kit keeps your digital privacy well secured.

The USB data blocker is around 0.4 inches thick. It weighs just about right, and the design is also decent. No issues there. Simply plug into the USB port and then connect your device to start charging. Although the manufacturer claims their USB data blocker increases the charging speed, we didn’t notice any increase during our trial runs.

The data blocker is compatible with all standard USB ports. It’s also a plug and play to give you ease of mind. However, the manufacturer has included a user manual with the package to help you out if you run into any trouble.

To conclude, the E-SDS Data Theft Kit can be a great gift for your friends and family. The price is a bargain. In fact, we believe you get more than what you’re paying for here since it’s a three in one privacy protection.

Buy Here: Amazon

Buyer’s Guide for USB Data Blockers

A USB data blocker is a pretty basic kind of tech. You don’t need to tear your hair out or look at a hundred resources to get a functional piece. Still, we suggest keeping an eye on these features:

Fast Charging

Fast Charging? Yes, please! Some data blockers are compatible with the latest fast charging technologies like Qualcomm Quick Charge or Samsung’s fast charge, giving you almost double the charging speed than normal chargers. Go for them! It will save you time.

Design

The design of a USB data blocker is the first thing you should consider. While most USB Data Blockers available in the market are compact, if it’s tiny, you would have trouble inserting or taking it out. Especially if you’re someone with giant hands, you need a blocker that has a more curvy design than a straightforward polished one.

Weight

Usually, these gadgets are lightweight, which helps with portability. You can keep a dozen of them in your backpack without any problem. Plastic USB blockers are more lightweight than metal ones. Consider weight only when you will carry one in your pocket and other accessories like headphones and USB cable.

USB Connector system

Does your device use a USB C port? In that case, make sure the data blocker you’re going for is compatible. Most of the data blockers available in the market support the standard USB port. Though you can go for an adapter if your port isn’t compatible, we wouldn’t recommend pairing them with a data blocker. It’s just too much of a hassle. Instead, opt for a data blocker that is compatible with your device. For instance, if you’re device uses a USB C port, make sure the data blocker also uses the USB C port on both ends.

OS Compatibility

While all of the blockers mentioned in this article support Android and iOS systems, not every USB blocker comes with this feature. Some of them are only intended for a particular kind of device. Therefore, we recommend keeping your eyes peeled on what Operating System does it support.

Final Thoughts

So that was all about USB data blockers. This tiny tech provides two-way protection. You’re protecting your own device as well as protecting others from yourself in case a data stealer is hiding in your system. Privacy is the biggest concern today, and with issues related to security on an all-time high, these utility tools have become all the more important. Stay safe! Use these tools whenever you’re using a public charging port.

Startup Disk Creator

Startup Disk Creator, as the name suggests, is an application for creating “startup disks” or “bootable disks” that can be run in live mode. This application ships by default in Ubuntu and some of its variants. The process for creating a new bootable drive using Startup Disk Creator is pretty straight forward: you have to launch the application, select the ISO image, select the USB drive and then have to click on the “Make Startup Disk” button. The process may take some to finish, depending on the read / write speeds of the external drive and size of the ISO image. Note that all data on the external drive will be wiped out during creation of the bootable drive.

In case Startup Disk Creator is not installed by default on your Ubuntu system, you can install it by running the command mentioned below:

If you are using Kubuntu or other Ubuntu derivatives using KDE as the default desktop environment, you can use the KDE variant instead:

Etcher

Etcher or balenaEtcher is a cross platform and open source application that can be used to flash ISO images of various Linux distributions. Created using technologies like Electron and TypeScript, Etcher can verify contents of external drives after flashing to ensure that these drives work properly on the next boot. Etcher features a minimalistic interface without much clutter.

You can download the Etcher “AppImage” executable file that can be used on all major Linux distributions from here. Other installable packages are also available on the same page.

UNetbootin

UNetbootin is an open source software that allows you to create bootable external drives from ISO images of various Linux distributions. It can also download ISO images directly from the application itself. UNetbootin uses a different approach than other applications mentioned in this article. It extracts the contents of the ISO image to external drives along with some other files needed to make these USB drives bootable. This method is especially useful if you want to copy some files to a USB drive once it has been made bootable. Other apps mentioned in the article may make “read-only” drives from ISO images of certain Linux distributions (Ubuntu for example).

You can download the UNetbootin executable binary that can be used on all Linux distributions from here.

Run the following commands to launch UNetbootin:

Note that UNetbootin shows an option to reserve space for persistent storage, but it didn’t work in my testing.

DD Command

DD command can copy and convert files on Linux systems. You can use it to transfer files on any connected storage drive, internal or external. DD command is commonly used to copy ISO image files and create bootable USB disks. DD command is available by default on all major Linux distributions.

To create a bootable live USB disk by using DD command, first you have to find out the identifier for your external drive. You can do so by running the command below:

Once you have the identifier for your external drive, run the command below by replacing “/dev/sdX” with the identifier you found in the step above (also change the path to ISO image file). Be extra careful when supplying the identifier, you don’t want to wipe out a wrong storage drive.

Wait for the process to finish, then safely remove the drive from the file manager.

Conclusion

These are some of the tried and tested methods to reliably create bootable live USB drives. These methods do not create persistent drives where all changes made in a live session are stored and saved just like on a full installation. Creating persistent drive is a bit complex process and a separate topic altogether.

Linux is an extremely stable and powerful operating system that has become quite popular among the community. With it being open-source and free to use, Linux has rapidly grown and has garnered a large audience in its user base. The beauty of Linux is that it offers a variety of tools having the same kind of functionality and this is the same case with formatting your USB drive.

There are several excellent tools out there that allow Linux users to easily format their USB drives, which can be divided into either the command line category or the graphical interface category.

In addition to this, there are several file systems in which your USB drive can be formatted and for our USB device to have maximum compatibility with other devices, FAT32 is the way to go.

Therefore, in this tutorial, we will be discussing how one can format their USB drives as the FAT32 file system in Linux.

Formatting your USB Drive

Before we move onto the process of formatting our USB device, we first need to locate it. This can simply be done by entering the following command into the terminal:

In my case, it will be the device found inside the rectangular region (/dev/sdb/):

After locating your device, we can now move onto the main process where, from the large collection of tools that Linux offers, we will be looking at two ways how users can format their USB drives in Linux.

Formatting your USB Drive using GParted

GParted is a partition editor that is responsible for creating and managing disk partitions which may include reorganizing as well as deleting partitions.

a) Installing GParted
First, we need to install GParted on our Linux systems which can be done by entering the following command into the terminal:

To verify if it has been installed, you can simply do so by running the following command:

b) Wiping your Data by Adding Zeros (Optional)
The next step is to completely wipe out all data present on your USB device so that it cannot be recovered later by using any recovery tool. This, however, is an optional step and you can choose to skip this if you like. However, for security reasons, it is highly recommended that you go ahead with this. This process can be done by simply running the following command into the terminal:

Over here, you need to replace the /dev/sdb part that comes after of= with the target location of your USB device which you discovered previously.

c) Creating and Formatting your USB Device
Now, we finally arrive at the crux of the process. Over here, firstly, we have to the unmount /dev/sdb1 (use the location you found above) USB device on your system as we cannot format a mounted device. This can be done by using the following command:

Next, we will create a new partition table where we also have to mention the type of partition table that we want. In our case, this will be msdos. To do this, simply run the following command in the terminal:

Now, we have to create the partition where we will be specifying the partition type, the file system that we want our USB Device to be as well as the size that our partition will cover. In our case, we want our USB device to be of the FAT32 file system, primary partition type, and want the whole USB size for our partition. This can be done by using the following command:

Once this is done, we can finally format our USB device to FAT32 using the mkfs command which is the following:

Note, over here, we used the /dev/sdb1 location rather than the /dev/sdb location which we were using before. This is because over here we do not want the disk part of our device to be formatted.

To check if your device has been partitioned correctly, run the following command to print the partition table:

And voila, that completes the entire process. You will now find your USB device completely formatted.

Formatting your USB Drive using Disks

For users more comfortable with the Graphical User Interface, Disks is a disk management tool that comes preinstalled with Ubuntu and almost every other Linux system. To open this, simply search for it in the Dash and click on it once its name appears.

After the Disk utility opens, first choose your device which you want to format from the available ones shown in the Disks application. In my case, it will be the following:

Over here, click on the gear icon present below the Volumes section and then select Format Partition from the choices given.

Gear Icon:

Format Partition:

After selecting this option, this will open a window, asking you to enter your new partition name as well as the type of your file system. Since we want our device to be of the FAT file system, we will select the following:

Next, confirm your details and once you’re sure everything is okay, click on the Format button on the top right-hand side as pointed by the arrow shown in the image below.

And voila, that completes the entire process. You will now find your USB device completely formatted.

Conclusion

As seen from the methods above, formatting USB drives on Linux is an extremely easy process. You just need to connect your device, choose the type of file system you want, and simply run the commands on the terminal or use the Disks utility to format your device. Of course, there are several other tools that you can use for formatting your USB devices but those shall be left for future tutorials.

Desktops are sure pricey, but they offer several benefits over laptops. The biggest being upgradability. By simply adding a new graphics card, processor, additional RAM, or a new motherboard, you can boost their performance. A USB port card is one such upgrade. It gives you more USB ports to play around with. Gamers, in particular, need more and better peripherals every once in a while. Adding a new USB port card becomes crucial if you don’t have that coveted USB-C port. USB C not only ensures cross-platform compatibility but also boosts your performance. It supports data, power, and video through a single cable, which helps clear clutter from your workspace.

If you’re looking for the best USB port cards, below are our top picks!

Tiergrade Superspeed 7 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card

Starting off with the best of the best, the Tiergrade Superspeed PCI-E card is perhaps the most affordable 7 port expansion card in the market. You just need a PCIe slot and an available SATA power connector to add up to five external USB3.0 ports and two internal ones. You can use the internal ports to add (for example) SSD’s with adaptive USB – SATA cords for extra internal storage.

The card is simply plugged and play. Upon initial boot, the device manager finds the new hardware, searches out the proper drivers, and does the installation. Just like that, the new USB 3.0 powered ports work like a charm. Theoretically, it offers a transfer rate of 5Gbps, but the actual rate may differ depending on the connected device.

Aesthetically the black PCB looks great. Since the cards draw power from the SATA connector, each port has plenty of juice to keep every attached device running.

The device comes with a standard 12 months manufacturer warranty. Upon registration, it can extend up to 18 months.  So you’re plenty covered in case your car runs into some problem. What’s more, even though the manufacturer doesn’t offer Linux and macOS support, we tried this card with both of these OSs without any problem.

Buy Here: Amazon

StarTech.com USB 3.1 PCIe Card

Second, on our list of the best USB port cards is StarTech’s 4 port USB 3.1 PCIe Card. There are three USB-A ports, while the last is a USB-C port giving you an unparalleled 10Ghz transfer rate. Though it’s one of the expensive USB port cards on our list, speedy transfers are worth every penny. Don’t you think?

The best thing about it is the two host controller chipsets. These get shared across two ports rather than four. Which means this card dedicates up to 10Gbps for each set of two USB ports. Doing so reduces any performance bottlenecks and doubles up your total available bandwidth to an impressive 20Gbps.

The card is sturdy and includes a heat sink to keep it running cool. The card gets instantly recognized on Windows, macOS, and some Linux distros, no need to install any drivers. Still, in case of a problem, you can get the latest driver from the Startech website. Plus, it is backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty.

With higher data throughput, the card is perfect for external HDDs, hard drive enclosures, and external storage devices. You access multiple devices simultaneously for reading as well as write operations.

Buy Here: Amazon

FebSmart PCI-E 4-Ports Super Fast 5Gbps USB 3.0 Expansion Card

The FebSmart FS-U4L-Pro gives you four USB 3.0 superfast ports. You can use them for audio, video, photos, or file transfer (speed up to 5Gbps). This little card comes with both standard and low profile mounting options; therefore, even the smaller desktops work great with this card. You can utilize the full-size PCI-E slots or the little two input one, as you please.

In particular, the low profile bracket is a big advantage for the computer’s internal ventilation. It makes sure your PC doesn’t run too hot. Another worthy consideration of purchasing this product is because it doesn’t need any additional power supply. We recommend plugging one or more cables into the card for best performance before tightening down the screws so that everything aligns perfectly.

Keep in mind, though; this card has vertical USB slots. So if you have a tight metal casing, you may have to bend or squeeze your cables to fit them in.

It’s plug and plays for Windows 10 and 8. However, if you’re using some other OS, you have to install drivers from the official website. Overall, this little card is definitely worth the price.

Buy Here: Amazon

SupaHub 5-Port PCI Express Expansion Card

Coming in fourth is a versatile PCI-E to USB 3.0 expansion card. The Supahub’s solution adds up to 7 new USB ports. It includes 4 USB-A front ports and a USB-C reversible front port. Besides, you can further expand its functionality by adding 2 internal USB 3.0 ports via a 20-pin connector adapter cable.

Build quality is great, and the card looks fine as well. Moreover, installation is snap, as it’s plug and play. The card is fully compatible with PCI-E 3.0 motherboards and supports any PCI-E socket (x1, x4, x8, x18) except the PCI port. It’s also hot-swappable, which means you can connect or disconnect devices without powering down your system.

The card works natively on all modern OS’s. No need to hunt for drivers. A cd is included for Linux and Mac, though, if needed. While some people complain that it’s USB C cable doesn’t stay in, we faced no such problem.

All in all, SupaHub’s PCI-E USB card is an inexpensive way to add a whole bunch of USB connections. The best thing is, you don’t need any wires or any extra power supply for external Hubs.

Buy Here: Amazon

FebSmart 2 Ports USB 3.0 Super Fast 5Gbps PCI Express (PCIe) Expansion Card

With this USB expansion card, you get two additional USB 3.0 ports for any data transfer. It’s low profile, full-height bracket works on both standard and mini desktops. What’s more, each port provides sufficient power (4A) for power-intensive USB devices. No need for a separate power cable!

Moreover, the interface is fully compatible with all PCI expansion slots. So you won’t have any trouble plugging it into your system. The card also comes with a half-height bracket. So you can swap out if you need to. The change out for the prebuilt full height bracket is also very straightforward.

Like most of the other USB cards on this list, Febsmart’s solution is to plug and play on the latest Windows OS. However, you have to download the drivers if you are using an old OS.  For this purpose, the package includes a driver installation CD. However, the installation from the CD process can test your nerves.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable two-port USB expansion card, Febsmart has got your guy at a very reasonable price!

Buy Here: Amazon

Buyer’s Guide For USB Port Cards

Not even the best USB port cards are equal. There are several characteristics to consider before you click that buy button. Let’s take a look at them!

Slot Availability
Does your motherboard have an additional slot for the new upgrade? A typical gaming rig will have two or three PCIe slots. In addition to USB cards, these slots are also utilized by sound and gaming cards. So when you’re adding a USB expansion card to a PC, you’re limiting its ability to upgrade. If you have already made a few upgrades in the past, chances are your PCIe slots are all occupied.

Card Height
The height of the card depends on the size of the desktop. If you’re using a modern desktop with a full-sized case and ATX motherboard, you’re in luck. You can get away with any USB port card. Conversely, a wider card will not fit a Mini or Micro ITX case. Here’s a pro tip: always look for a low profile mounting bracket. In case you’re getting one with the kit, all is good. Your card can fit a smaller case.

Number and Types of Ports
Because of limited bandwidth, you can only have four external USB port slots at max. These can be USB-C or USB-A. Some manufacturers keep a limited number of ports for a slim form factor. Therefore, consider what devices you will be connecting with the ports. Then you can select between a suitable combination of USB-A and USB-C slots.

Power
All PC components draw power from the power supply, which is limited. Secondly, not all power supplies offer the same amount of wattage. Adding a USB port card tends to push you over the limits. Earlier USB standards provided only 5 or 10 watts. But the latest USB 3.0 and 3.1 ports can offer up to 100 watts. That means a two USB 3.0 port card can draw 200 watts of power. Will your power supply be able to meet the needs? If not, you can go for a card that uses a dedicated power cord.

Final Thoughts

Adding a USB card is a pretty remarkable way to add USB 3.0 ports to a desktop. All of these options are worth your money. But which one’s the best will depend on your needs. Go through our buyer’s guide section again if you need guidance about a suitable card. We hope you make the best use of this information.

To amplify connectivity, we have gathered 5 USB gadgets that will change your whole game. You can use them to transform your work and lifestyle entirely.

Buyer’s Guide to the Best USB Gadgets

This article isn’t specific to a single type of product. There are still some factors you need to be aware of when opting for a USB operated product.

Quality

The market is full of USB gadgets. To come across a legit useful item can be quite tricky. Whatever class of products you opt for, make sure they are solidly built. Cheap plastic or rust inviting USB items often end up damaging the products you connect these items with. The USB cable ports last longer when constructed from stainless steel connected to copper wires.

Speed

Speed is important if you are considering a data transfer or charging tool for your devices. Make sure the speed is cross-checked with battery life. Many times, we end up losing the present battery life instead of adding to it.

Compatibility

The biggest concern in USB operated gadgets is the factor of external compatibility. The ongoing rivalry between Micro USB, USB 2.0, and USB C ports have given users a tough time. This is why we have mentioned Universal USB gadgets in the midst to be of saving grace. If you do end up with a specific port, make sure to invest in a connector to be able to widen your connectivity arc.

Cable Length

Knowing well the freedom USB gadgets come with, it is vital to make sure that their charging cable is of adequate length. Power banks of transfer hubs often come with small cables, making the process speedy. But at the same time, they take away a big chunk of user freedom. A bonus would be if such USB gadgets support wireless/air charging. This will only add to your comfort, and you would have fewer items to worry about.

Longevity

Lastly, you need to keep in mind that certain USB gadgets will not run for a lifetime. Some products are only meant for light temporary use, even if they are of optimum quality. Many USB items may not cater to heavy-duty use.

Top Tier Products You Must Give a Try

1. Cahot Fast UV Light Sanitizer Box

With the ongoing worldwide pandemic, sanitization is key. So, for our key focus, we present you with the Smartphone deep UV sanitization box. This is a quick fix to the disinfection needed for your personal belongings.

It contains 8 true LED U-V-C, which help eradicate 99% of hazards in under 3 minutes. As for its size, it is perfect to house your daily necessary items. The container is broad and deep enough to contain larger model smartphones. The 6.5 inches depth is ideal for iPhone 11 Pro Max, Samsung Note 10, or other similar-sized devices. Measuring 7.4 x 3.5 x 2 inches in size, it is perfect for disinfecting multiple items at once.

A distinct feature includes the ability to perform wireless charging. You’d be able to disinfect and charge your phone hand in hand by simply placing it on top! It can support any iOS/Android Qi-enabled devices (iPhone 8 or newer models, Samsung S7 or newer models, and other Qi-enabled phones). This USB gadget can be charged anytime, anywhere by connecting it with your laptop or an adapter.

Finally, this device also has Auto-Off Protection. The lamps automatically switch off once you open them to save your eyes from light exposure. Our only gripe here is the hefty price, though everybody needs to invest in health.

Buy Here: Amazon

2. Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub with Individual LED Power Switches (HB-UM43)

To enjoy your USB gadgets, you need optimum connectivity and a way to charge them. With This USB hub, you can connect up to 4 ports collectively. It also lets you have full control over which port to switch on.

The device comes in many variants, ranging from 4 to 7 port alternatives. This USB hub allows you to instantly add USB 3.0 ports to any compatible device. You get an extended 2 ft length that provides freedom of movement.

Sabrent also has convenient LED indicators that display each port’s activity. It’s accessible through the push of a button. As for transferring data, the hub supports speeds up to 5Gbps (USB 3.0), 480 Mbps (USB 2.0), and 12 Mbps (USB 1.1), managing to send files in seconds.

You can use this hub with a PC, Macbook, iMac, Mac Mini, XPS Flash Drives, and any other standard USB device. It’s plug n’ play. This means you don’t need any driver installation or software setup. However, the cord quality wears away with time.

Buy Here: Amazon

3. Solar Panel, Anker 21W 2-Port Portable USB Charger

A USB-port solar panel aids you in keeping a full battery, even when you’re far away from a wall socket. This nature’s power bank is a foldable panel that allows you to recharge phones like iPhone models 11/XS/XS Max/XR/X/8/7, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, Samsung S9/S8/S7/S6, and several others. Be sure to check the package for details.

It is equipped with fast charging technology. That is a Power IQ, delivering 2.4A per port or 3A overall under direct sunlight. It can also charge two devices simultaneously. All thanks to the SolarPower solar array, that makes it 21.5%-23.5% more efficient.

The panel is formed from industrial-strength PET polymer faced solar panels making it highly durable. These are sewn to create a rugged polyester, proving to be weather-outdoor resistant. Measuring 11.1” x 6.3” (folded) or 26.4″ x 11.1″ (opened), the panel is quite thin and lightweight. This aids in placing it on backpacks or tree trunks effortlessly, through stainless-steel eyeholes.

You get an Anker PowerPort Solar (21W 2-Port USB solar charger), 3 ft Micro USB cable, and a guide in the set. However, to maximize its function and for a fluid charging speed, you should place it in direct sunlight. Otherwise, it will end up depleting the present battery as well.

Buy Here: Amazon

4. Utotrip Magnetic Charging Cable

There has been a shift in USB cable usage between devices. This has led to a vacuum of charging devices compatible with all. The Utotrip might just be the Universal 3 in 1 USB Magnetic cable solution you’re looking for.

The high-quality charging cable is multi-layered with a pure Copper Core that increases your charging speed up to 30%. The magnetic end allows you to change the port from Micro USB, USB C, and 8-P. The magnetic tip is strong enough to withstand disconnecting forces. What’s more, it supports a normal charging output of 5V/2.4A (max). Its head is a 90-degree L shape and is capable of 360-degree rotation, making it even more convenient.

The interface also prevents dust buildup, which is crucial in preventing it from sticking to the base. The magnetic force is strong to keep it intact. Yet, only pressure from one hand is enough to connect or disconnect. The soft Blue Led light will indicate connectivity, proving very fruitful in dark lit spaces.

The Universal Magnetic USB cable comes with 3 types of connectors. This makes it compatible with iPhone 11/11 Pro/X/XS Max, Samsung S series, Pixel, and much more. Nevertheless, the small magnetic pins can be hard to keep track of. Don’t lose them!

Buy Here: Amazon

5. EBYPHAN Touch Dimmable LED USB Light

Working with your laptop in the dark can prove quite troublesome, especially if you have to type.

This USB light Gadget allows you to gain clear access and not disturb other people in the room. Measuring17.9-inch length, this flexible LED light adjusts to your liking to better light the keys. The stick comes in 3 bright colors and weighs only 2 oz.

This emergency light comes equipped with 14 pcs of high-quality LED beads. These are both efficient and bright enough to keep your eyes safe. You also get 3 light settings through its touch sensor button. These settings draw 80mA, 130mA, and 230mA power, so it will last for extended periods without draining your laptop battery.

The size is right, almost 1 foot in length. With good touch response, adjustable brightness settings, and multiple options, the EBYPHAN USB laptop light is a handy little device. However, with prolonged use, the light does tend to run slightly hot.

Buy Here: Amazon

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, the world of USB gadgets is both fascinating and confusing. If you want something convenient, light, and hassle-free, choosing a USB operated gadget will serve you well. Once you dive into the abyss of USB devices, you will come across all sorts of things. From USB mug warmers to endoscopy cables, limited only by your imagination. We chose the five best USB gadgets based on their usability. What do you think? Let us know in the usual space!

This guide shows you how to format a drive in Linux.

Formatting a Drive in Linux

There are two primary ways of formatting a drive in Linux: using the CLI and using the GUI. For general users, using a GUI tool may be more comfortable, whereas advanced or professional users may find the CLI method better suits them.

Either way, performing a disk format requires root access or sudo privileges. However, in certain situations, a different user can perform drive format if there is write permission for that drive. This article was written with the assumption that you have root access to your system.

The drive formatting process can be a bit tricky. To use the device storage, a drive must have a partition table with or without partitions. The partitions will allow the OS to access the storage. By formatting the drive, we are formatting the partition. If there are multiple partitions, then you have to perform the formatting process for all of them.

Formatting a Partition using the GUI Method

For managing disks and partitions (and related functions), GParted is the best option. GParted is a free and open-source tool used for managing disk partitions. This tool comes with tons of features and support for numerous file systems.

There are two ways to use GParted. You can install GParted on the running system or use the bootable image to perform the disk format. Both methods come with their own pros and cons. The good part is, whichever method you follow, the UI of GParted works the same.

First, we will show you how to install GParted onto your system. Depending on the Linux distro that you are running on your system, use the appropriate one.

For Debian/Ubuntu and derivatives:

For Fedora and derivatives:

For openSUSE and derivatives:

To use GParted from the boot, download the GParted bootable ISO here. You can also make a bootable CD, DVD, or USB flash drive. Check out how to make a bootable USB flash drive on Linux here. Once you have prepared the system, boot into the CD, DVD, or USB flash drive.

From this point on, GParted behaves the same. For convenience, I will be demonstrating using GParted installed on Ubuntu.

Launch GParted, and it will ask for the root password.

From the top-right corner, select the device on which the operation is to be performed.

Next, you must decide the target partition. For an in-depth guide on how to create and manage partitions using GParted, check out how to use GParted here. In this case, the target partition is the /dev/sda5 partition.

As you can see, the partition is currently mounted. Before performing any action, the partition must be unmounted. Right-click and select “Unmount.”

Now, the partition is ready to be formatted. If the device is a USB flash drive, then file systems like FAT32, NTFS, and EXT4 are generally the best option. If the device is an HDD, then it is better to go for EXT4. You can also go for a different format if there is a need for a specific file system. In my case, I will right-click and select “Format to” >> “fat32.”

An interesting feature of GParted is that it does not write the changes to the drive instantly. This way, even if you misconfigure the drive, you can easily discard the changes. To make the changes permanent, click “Apply All Operations.”

GParted will now ask you for confirmation. In this example, after performing the formatting, the partition will lose all its data. Click “Apply” to confirm.

Voila! The partition has been formatted successfully!

Formatting a Partition Using the CLI method

This method is relatively shorter than the previous one. However, this method is only recommended for advanced users, as it comes with a higher chance of damage to the system. This method is less failsafe than GParted, so you must be super careful.

Connect the device to the computer. By default, most Linux distros will mount all the partitions of the device. Assuming it hosts a single partition, it will be mounted automatically. Check out the list of mounted filesystems below.

It is not allowed to format a partition that is currently mounted. To unmount the partition, run the following command.

Now, you can format the partition with your desired filesystem. Run the command that suits your needs.

Final Thoughts

Formatting a drive in Linux is not complicated. All it requires is the willingness to focus and learn a few new things. Once mastered, you can use the methods discussed in this article on any Linux distro.

Partition formatting is not the only thing Linux offers. Using the built-in tools that Linux comes with, you can manipulate drive partitions. To learn more, check out how to use the Linux mount command and Linux umount command. ]]> https://linuxhint.com/use_lsusb_command/ Sat, 10 Oct 2020 10:31:41 +0000 https://linuxhint.com/?p=70543 The lsusb command, commonly known as the “List USB” command, is one of the most commonly used commands in Linux. As the name implies, this command is used to list all the USB devices that are attached to your Linux system. When combined with different parameters or options, this command can also be used to serve other purposes. This article shows you how to use the lsusb command in Linux.

Note: Linux Mint 20 is used throughout this article to demonstrate the usage of this command. However, you can work with any Linux distribution of your choice.

Install usbutils Package

Before getting started with the lsusb command, install the usbutils package onto your Linux Mint 20 system. To install the package, follow the steps shown below:

Launch the terminal by clicking on the terminal icon, highlighted in the following image:

After you click on this icon, the terminal window will immediately pop up, as shown below:

Before installing the usbutils package, it is highly recommended to update your Linux Mint 20 system to avoid hindrances during the installation. This can be done by executing the update command in the following manner:

This command can be seen in the image shown below:

Once your system has been updated, you will see the following output, as mentioned in the image on your terminal:

After successfully updating your system, you can now run the following command without any worries:

This command will install the usbutils package on your Linux Mint 20 system.

The successful installation of the said package will render the following output on your terminal:

Using the lsusb Command

The lsusb command provides information about the USB devices attached to your Linux system. This command may either be used individually or combined with various choices. For this section, we are only interested in running the lsusb command independently, i.e., without any additional parameters or options. Simply run the following command in your Linux Mint 20 terminal to do so:

Upon successful execution of this command, you will see all the information related to any USB buses and devices connected to your system, as in the following image:

Options Used with the lsusb Command

As mentioned previously, the lsusb command can also be used in conjunction with different options. These options include the following:

• -s: Displays information about any particular USB device, according to the device’s bus number and device number.
• -v: Shows more detailed information about the USB devices connected to your system.
• -D: Provides detailed information read from a specific USB device file.
• -t: Displays all the connected USB devices in the form of a tree or hierarchy.

In the examples given below, you will learn more about the usage of these options.

Example 1: Display a Specific USB Device

To display a specific USB device, you need to know two things about the device: its bus number and its device number. These two items can be determined simply by running the lsusb command alone, as discussed above. Once you know the bus and device numbers of the USB device, run the following command on your terminal:

Replace the BusNum and DeviceNum with the device’s bus number and device number, respectively. For the sake of demonstrating this method, we have used bus number 1 and port number 1, which you can verify in the image below:

After running this command, you will see the USB device, along with the specified bus number and device number on your terminal, as shown in the following image:

Example 2: Display Detailed Information about All USB Devices

To display every detail about all the USB devices that are connected to your system, run the following command in your terminal:

You can also see this command in the image below, for more clarity:

After this command is executed successfully, you will be able to see more details about all the USB devices connected to your system, as seen in the image below:

Example 3: Display Information about a Specific USB Device

As you may have noticed, in the method above, the output with the –v option was quite long. In some situations, you might want to have detailed information only about a single device, instead of having it for all the USB devices attached to your system. If this is the goal, then a detailed output about a single USB device can be achieved by executing the following command in your terminal:

Again, to run this command, you will need to know the bus number and device number of the specific USB device that you would like more information about from the device’s particular file. In this example, we have replaced the ‘BusNum’ with 001 and the ‘DeviceNum’ with 002, as shown in the image below:

After running this command, you will be able to see all the details about the specified USB device, read directly from the device’s file, as shown in the following image:

Example 4: Display All USB Devices in a Tree Structure

At times, you may also want to list down all the connected USB devices in the form of a hierarchy or a tree structure, for easier readability. This can be done by executing the following command in your terminal:

This command can also be seen in the image below:

Running this command will display all the USB devices that are connected to your system in the form of a tree structure, as shown in the following image:

Conclusion

This article gives you a detailed overview of the usage of the lsusb command in Linux Mint 20. Now, whenever you require more information about the USB devices attached to your system, you can conveniently make use of this command.

In this article, we review the top five NVME to USB adapters. Later on, we discuss the essential factors to keep in mind when hunting for the right choice. So, let’s begin!

1. SSK M.2 NVME SSD Enclosure Adapter

This compact M.2 NVME SSD Enclosure for PCIe SSDs is a portable, high-performance data storage solution for your USB 3.1 (second generation) or Thunderbolt 3 enabled devices. Thanks to its high-performance controller chip (JMS583), the data transmission rates reach an astounding 10 Gbps (1000Mbps R&W speed).

The aluminum build is decent. It is plug & play and supports hot-swapping. Besides, it has a straightforward installation process. You just need the tiny screwdriver (included in the package) to insert the SSD into its PCIe NVME Slot. Great! Now plug it into the USB port and start cloning right away.

When closed, the SSD cardholder presses the drive against the metal casing to improve cooling. Moreover, the kit comes with a thermal pad. You can stick it onto the SSD controller to further improve conduction. This helps keep the temperature in check. Plus, it offers multi-OS support (windows, Linux, MAC.

Our only disappointment is that the package includes a USB-C cable and no USB-C to USB-A cable. Even though USB-C is superior, older systems do not have a USB-C port, and having a cable adapter would have certainly been helpful. Overall, this is a solid premium item for a no-frills price.

Buy‌ ‌Here:‌ ‌‌Amazon‌ ‌

2. JESOT NVME to USB Adapter

Don’t want a wired NVME to USB adapter? Try JESOT’s M.2 SSD to USB 3.1 adapter. It has a straight connection and can also use it as a portable SSD. Based on the JMS583 chip, it is more stable and Widely compatible with PCI-E (M-KEY) Interface.

It’s a plug and play device. Simply snap it in. Then tighten the included screws. Plug it into a computer, and then format to your liking. Done! However, keep in mind that it ONLY supports PCIe NVME based M Key & B+M Key SSDs. It doesn’t support any SATA-based SSD.

Theoretically, the device can achieve a transmission speed of 10Gbps. Nevertheless, our quick speed test got 7.5Gbps, which is not bad at all for higher speeds. However, you should consider investing in a fully enclosed adapter. One advantage of no enclosure is that it offers faster heat dissipation. So you can read/write for longer periods without worrying about the rising temperature.

It’s a blue LED that is super useful. Stable when the adapter is online and starts blinking when active. You can easily see when the cloning is done (the light stops blinking). Unfortunately, it is compatible with Windows and MAC only. That said, JESOT’s NVME to USB adapter delivers what it promises – excellent performance. Highly recommended for cloning NVME drives if you are on a budget.

Buy‌ ‌Here:‌ ‌‌Amazon‌ ‌

3. Unitek M.2 NVME SSD Enclosure

Unitek’s M.2 NVME SSD enclosure adapter is lightweight, portable, and compact. So you can take it along. The aluminum alloy design gives it a solid feel but do not drop it, please. The enclosure comes equipped with the RTL 9210 controller chipset and offers 10Gbps ultra-high-speed transmissions. What’s more, it supports forward and backward insertion.

The casing slides off easily, revealing the NVME SSD. It is held in place by a tension-loaded plastic clip. No screws or tools are necessary to install your M.2. There’s also a thermal pad and a metal strip for quick heat transfer. Perhaps that is why its heat dissipation is excellent. Personally, I don’t like to Perma attach the thermal pads, but it still works well to slide the pad and metal strip over the SSD drive. You can then slide the plastic cover back, snugly closing it.

The adopter offers a range of M-Key M.2 SSD compatibility. However, it wouldn’t work with mSATA SSDs, M.2 PCIe AHCI SSDs, M.2 SATA SSDs, none-M.2 form factor SSDs and M.2 PCIe devices like WiFi and capture cards.

All in all, Unitek’s NVME enclosure is an exciting option. It is compact, plug and play supports hot-swap, and offers up to 10Gbps (theoretical) speed. Plus, it offers a range of M-Key. In our opinion, a higher price and no Linux support are its main disadvantages.

Buy‌ ‌Here:‌ ‌‌Amazon‌ ‌

4. QNINE NVME to USB Adapter [Upgraded]

The QNINE’s NVME to USB enclosure is an interesting low-cost option. Based on the JMS583 USB3.1 Gen2 to PCIe Gen3 x2 bridge chip, it works fast with transmission speeds reaching 10Gbps. Compact & convenient, it has a travel-ready design as you don’t need a cable to connect with a PC or laptop.

The adapter is straightforward to set up. Instead of a mechanical snap, though, it uses a small screw to hold down the SSD. The package includes a magnetic screwdriver to help with that. Nevertheless, this can be a problem for people who are used to plug and play devices. The upgraded design comes with three thermal pads for cooling. Besides, it has an open design. Still, the device gets hot when you are transferring 500+ Gb of data or using it for longer periods.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t work with Samsung Cloning software. So if you are trying to clone to a new Samsung SSD, try Macrium Reflect to clone (or any other cloning software) and then some partition manager like EaseUs to get around this problem.

Overall, the QNINE’s adapter works great on Single Board Computers (Like Raspberry Pi) as an OS Drive or as a portable Linux OS Drive for rescuing dying drives.

Buy‌ ‌Here:‌ ‌‌Amazon‌ ‌

5. MyDigitalSSD M2X Portable SSD External Enclosure Adapter

On the fifth spot, we have MyDigitalSSD’s portable adapter. It makes you bring ultra-fast USB 3.1 NVME speeds on the go by turning any M-key SSD into a pocket drive.

The durable aluminum enclosure has USB-A & USB-C connectivity and provides up to 2TB data storage capacity. All thanks to a grooved fin heatsink design, which reduces any overheating and thermal throttling. This also makes for much smoother data transfers. So, your drive achieves peak performance without any problem.

What’s more, the M2X enclosure adapter is plug and play. It’s compatible with 2280, 2260, & 2242 form factors, compatible with all OS and fully bus-powered for multiple uses.

That said, its hardware does feel cheap and clumsy. However, that’s hardly a concern because this enclosure adapter works with lightning-fast speed and is an overall Great external drive case. Plus, it comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty to cover your back if something goes wrong.

Buy‌ ‌Here:‌ ‌‌Amazon‌ ‌

Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the best NVME to USB adapter isn’t just in your interest. It makes sure your drive stays protected too. A suitable drive will ensure full compatibility and help you remove any bottlenecks within your build that may pop up in the future. So read this buyer’s guide carefully!

Size support

M.2 NVME’s come in multiple sizes. Most commonly 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110. So choose an enclosure that supports your disk size. Please note that these enclosures don’t support all sizes. The information is usually written in the product description.

Transfer speeds

The sequential read and write speed is just as crucial as the random read and write speed. You should select an adapter which has a nice balance of both. All the products mentioned above have theoretically 10Gbps sequential RW speed while the random RW speed differs depending on the model.

Casing 

No casing means the adapter will easily dissipate heat during the large file transfers. But such enclosures are hard to maintain. If you purchase one with an aluminum casing, make sure it is durable and heat tolerant enough to work without throttling the transfer speed.

Temperature

To keep the temperature in check, the best NVME to USB adapter uses extra thermal pads. These are sometimes included in the package. If not, you can purchase extra pads online. Apply the pads to both the top and bottom of the drive to help with heat dissipation.

Connectivity/Compatibility

The products mentioned above are all compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 2. In case you often work with USB 3.0 or 2.0, make sure the drive is backward compatible. Some adapters will only work with USB 3.1 or USB 3.0, which limits their applications.

Price

And of course, you have to keep the cost in mind. If you don’t want extra bells and whistles, a basic enclosure with decent enough speed will cost around 25 bucks. Higher-end models can be as expensive as $100.

Final Thoughts

The best NVME to USB adapter can be used in more than one way. It can turn into your high-speed storage, or you can utilize it for cloning an existing drive, backing up data, running a mobile OS, and much more. We hope you got to learn a thing or two from this article. If you have any comments let us know. That’s all for now. Good luck!

However, buying a USB hub compatible with Linux isn’t always straightforward because of the sheer number of hubs available in the market. If you too are unsure, this article is specially catered for you. After thorough market research, we have selected the best USB hubs for Linux systems for our reviews section. There’s also a buyer’s guide in the first part of the article to help you select the most appropriate USB hub.

Buyers Guide

Before diving into our product line, it is better to focus on what makes a USB Hub worth buying. Here are certain factors that need a rundown before you make up your mind.

Compatibility

Whatever USB hubs that you will come across in this post support Linux and many other systems. Connecting different devices shouldn’t require time-consuming software downloads to run them. With these hubs, you have maximum device connectivity in sync with your operating system.

Data Transfer Speed

It is all about efficiency and trusts me, no one wants to be stuck for hours when transferring large files. When stuck between two options, pick the one that can transfer more data in less time.

How Many Ports?

Isn’t it great to have some extra in the bank? You never know how and when you might need an additional port to do a quick data transfer or connect a printer real quick. It all depends on your personal use.

Here’s is a small tip! Always get a USB Hub that has an additional 2 or 3 ports than your targeted use. You will never get disappointed when something needs a quick fix. Moreover, charging ports is always a cherry on top. They have different power transfers, up to 1A to 2A, instead of the data port transfer around 500mA. Another vital detail is the port placement. This pointer may seem useless, and those many port hubs may look quite attractive. But it is all in vain when you can’t accommodate 2 USBs next to one another. Choose one which has evenly spaced and well-distributed ports.

Power Source

There are usually two variations, bus/port connecting to your laptop and a powered USB Hub. The former proves its worthwhile traveling, as searching for a power outlet while on the move may not always be easy. Although for desk-related work, it is wise to pick the latter as the HUB will not affect your primary computer’s power, and it will also steer away from disconnection issues.

USB 2.0 or 3.0?

Try to stay current and in sync with technology trends. Newer generations always have updated transfer speeds. But, it takes time for a trend to set in, and newer versions do cost more. So, be in line with what suits your device. You can always get connectors when you face the dilemma of your USB Hub not supporting the latest USB 3.0.

Our Top Five USB Hubs for Linux

1. AUKEY YTCBH36

The best USB Hub for Linux is the one by AUKEY. This is a USB 3.0 Hub that has 4 cleverly placed ports. Out of these, 2 of them can support for 2.4 GHz wireless and MIDI devices.

The Aluminium, slim, lightweight body is quite easily manageable. Besides, its housing exhibits great heat dissipation, which in turn promises longevity of the device. The thin structure takes up less space and helps with the overall setup of your computer. As for transfer speed, this Hub syncs data at a high speed of 5Gbps. Which means you can transfer an HD movie in seconds between devices.

This AUKEY USB Hub is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS x 10.6 – 10.12, or later and the Linux 2.6.12 or Later. It works well with USB A peripherals, allowing you to connect to any Flash drives, keyboards, mice, or other external hardware.

Simply plug and play for instant data transfer without extra installations. It also blesses your system with overcurrent and short circuit protection, electromagnetic interference, and electrostatic discharge. It offers durability while having value for money. Though, the cable length is short and comes with no charging ports.

Buy Here: Amazon

2. Anker 4 Port USB Hub

In the second place, we have another 4 port USB 3.0 hub backed by a 2 ft extended cable. This is yet another slim and sleek USB Hub that takes almost no room and manages to classify your USBs accordingly.

AS for the data transferring speed, this device also supports blazing data transfers up to 5 Gbps! The Anker is all about increasing your productivity at work. The fast transfers paired with its 2ft long damage resistant cable, a plastic-cased 35 grams body for comfortable workstation setups, help the user get things done faster and conveniently.

What’s more, the durable cable strap is free which prevents it from cluttering and exhibits flexibility around your workstation. It is compatible with multiple OS, including all versions of Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

The Anker is a durable, slim, and lightweight USB Hub that enables fast data transfers. However, the device does not carry charging ports, and devices connected to it must not exceed 900 mA. If you need to organize your workspace and manage many devices, the affordable yet reliable Anker USB hub is highly recommended.

Buy Here: Amazon

3. Sabrent 7-Port USB 3.0 Plus 3 Smart Charging Ports

Another affordable yet, an exquisite piece of USB Hub is by Sabrent. These come in many variants, with a different number of ports. We are discussing the HB-B7C3.

This ten-port beast has 7 data transfer ports and 3 fast-charging ones. The charging ports have auto optimized current speeds, with up to 2.4 amps per port. You can easily charge a tablet and a fast-charging phone together. To avoid it from overcharging, simply switch its power off with the switches given adjacent to them.

The Larger versions are 60 W power output supported Hubs. Hence they can support heavy externals without dipping the main source of power. All Sabrent USB Hubs are compatible with all versions of Windows, Mac OS, and Linux and further backward compatibility with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices.

The package comes with an additional power adaptor and USB cables for you to set up your mega USB Hub station and organize it to the fullest. Just plug them in and start connecting. Nevertheless, the power cable may hinder your work while on the move, as you’ll be needing a power outlet nearby.

Buy Here: Amazon

4. Hiearcool USB C Hubb, Multiport Adaptor

In fourth, we have an intelligent piece of USB Hub perfect for multiple tasks in one go. This is a USB C to HDMI hub equipped with USB 3.0 x 2, 4K@30 HDMI, SD/TF card adaptor, and up to 100W/20V/5A Type C PD Charging port (where data transfer isn’t supported).

It has a wide range of compatibility that makes connectivity between devices really easy and opens up your operating system to endless possibilities. (XP/7/8/10/Vista/Chrome/OS/Mac OS/Linux/Android Etc. This USB Hub is a 100 W Power Delivery Supported device. It comes equipped with a super-smart chip, supports USB C pass through 100 W charging.

But that’s not all!

This adaptor is also designed to prevent overloading, over-voltage, over-current, short-circuit, overcharge, and voltage and heat protection. It also supports high-speed data transfers, up to 5Gbps, and charging up to 5V at 0.9A. It’s a work efficient travel size USB Hub. Still, you may not always find power outlets to power the device for heavier externals.

Buy Here: Amazon

5. Powered USB Hub 3.0 Atolla 7 Port USB Data Hub Splitter

Lastly, we have a 7 port external USB 3.0 Hub. It comes along with a 100cm USB Hub cord that turns one USB port to 7 real quick. You also get a 5V/4A power adaptor (with a 120cm electrical cord) to back it up when connected to heavier externals. This Hub offers instant expansion and allows you to connect to any keyboards, Mouse, and other USBs.

Wait, there’s more!

This USB Hub has a super blazing transfer speed of up to 5 Gbps and manages to transfer large files in mere seconds. As for charging your other devices, the USB 3.0 splitter gives a port designed solely for charging. You can easily juice your iPads or phones quicker and safer with its charging power of 2.4 A.

This Hub is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS, and Linux. The system is a simple plug and play, with no further system downloads to run efficiently. The switches next to each port, let you be in control of port activation and save power. However, the unit itself is bulkier than the rest, and there is a limit of 4 Amperes for total connected devices.

Buy Here: Amazon

Closing Thoughts

When searching for a USB Hub for your Linux operating system, make sure it is compatible with a wide range of devices to expand your connectivity options. Also, try to have an estimate of ports needed and whether you rely on such ports for charging or not. These three main factors will help you find the best fit USB Hub for your personal use. That’s about it for now! Thank you for reading.

One of these is the ability to securely wipe the data off your USBs and SD Cards. This comes handy when a user is in need of freeing up space on their external device or wanting to wipe some sensitive data that cannot be recovered by any means. With privacy issues becoming so common these days, it has become even more important to have information regarding steps to protect your data. Therefore, today we’ll be looking at different ways on how one can wipe their data from external storage devices securely on Ubuntu.

Wiping Data using the Disk Manager

One of the most straightforward and easiest ways for wiping data on Ubuntu is by using the built-in Disk Manager. Since this is preinstalled in almost all the Ubuntu releases, there is no need of having to use any installation methods to install it which further makes our work easier. Let us now look at how one can wipe their data using the Disk Manager

Step 1:

First of all, plugin your USB drive or SD Card into your PC and let it completely connect to your system. Open your Files folder and you will see a new icon on the left sidebar of the folder.

Step 2:

Next open your Ubuntu Dash and search for Disks. After seeing the Disks icon, click on it and launch it.

Step 3:

After launching the Disks utility, select the external device that you want to wipe.

Step 4:

Now click on the Settings icon which is present under the Volumes section next to the minus sign. You will see a number of options available under the step-down menu. Click on the Format Partition option. This can also be accessed by entering the following keyboard shortcut: Shift+Ctrl+F.

Step 5:

You will be prompted with a Format Window pop-up which will ask you to set up the Volume Name and Type of File System that you want your USB or SD Card to use after being formatted. For the type, it is usually better to go with the default option.

Also, it is important that you click on the Erase button. Once it says ON, click on Next found on the top right corner.

Step 6:

Finally, a Confirm Details window will pop-up which will confirm whether you want to format your external device or not. Click on the Format Button on the top right to go ahead with the formatting process.

Depending on the size of your external device, this will process will take time. Once it is completed, eject your device and connect it again. You will see that your device has been completely formatted.

Wiping Data using Command Line

Ubuntu has one of the most powerful command line tools out there. For many Users, Linux is all about using the terminal and learning its many commands. The Command Line itself has several tools that allows users to wipe their data from their USBs. Thus, let us now also look at one of these Command Line methods of wiping data from your external devices.

Step 1:

Firstly, open the terminal through either Ubuntu Dash or Ctrl+Alt+T shortcut. Now check if your Ubuntu version already has parted installed, which is a preinstalled tool for manipulating partitions. This can be done by running the following command:

In case your Ubuntu system does not has parted installed, you can install it by running the following commands:

It is to be noted the above command is only for Debian based systems like Ubuntu. For CentOS and Fedora users, parted can be installed by entering the following command in the terminal:

Step 2:

Next plugin your USB drive or SD Card into your PC and let it completely connect to your system. Enter the following command into the terminal to get the name of your device:

Over here, all the external devices connected will be shown. Closely examine each one and carefully choose the device that you want to wipe. In my case, the device is /dev/sdb.

Step 3:

Next unmount the device by entering the following command into the terminal:

Here you have to insert your own device name in place of /dev/sdb.

Step 4:

Now we can finally wipe the data off our external devices. This can be done by executing the following command:

What this does is that it completely overwrites all your data with zeros. Depending on the size of the device, it will take some time to complete.

Step 5:

Once this is done, now we have to use the parted program to create a partition. First of all, eject your USB device or SD card and reinsert it. Then enter the following command into the terminal to create a partition:

Here you have to insert your own device name in place of /dev/sdb.

Step 6:

Then you need to create an empty primary partition which will hold the Fat file system of our external device later. This can be done by running the following command:

Here you have to insert your own device name in place of /dev/sdb. This newly created partition will have the id /dev/sdb1.

Step 7:

Finally enter the following command to create a Fat file system partition on the /dev/sdb1 partition we created in Step 6:

Here we are creating a fat filesystem on the /dev/sdb1 partition.

Voila, our USB and SD Card has now been completely wiped clean.

Conclusion

Ubuntu offers users a very straightforward way of wiping data from external devices. It offers a GUI method through the Disk Manager and a Command Line method using the parted and dd commands. Both methods are relatively easy to use and efficiently clean your USB and SD Cards.

In this article, we will discuss how to mount a USB drive in a Debian OS in case it is not detected by the system automatically.

We have used Debian 10 OS for describing the procedure mentioned in this article.

Mounting a USB drive

Step 1: Plug-in the USB drive to any of the available USB ports in your system.

Step 2: After plugging the drive, you will need to find out the USB device name and the file system type it is using. For that, open the Terminal application in your Debian OS and execute the following command as sudo:

When you execute the above command, you will get the output similar to below. you will find the USB device probably at the end of the output labeled as sdb, sdc or sdd, etc.. Note down the device name and the file system. In our case, it is sdb1 running a FAT32 file system.

Step 3: Now we will have to create a mount point directory where we want to mount our USB drive. To do so, use the following syntax in Terminal:

For instance,

Step 4: Next, in this step, we will mount the USB drive to the mount point we created above. The syntax of command would be:

For instance, to mount our USB drive /dev/sdb1 to the mount point /media/USB/, we have used the following command:

Step 5: Use the following command to verify if the USB drive is mounted successfully.

For instance, in our case:

The above output shows our USB drive has been mounted. In case you receive no output, then it implies the device has not mounted.

Step 6: To access and browse the mounted device, use the cd command as follows:

Also, you can access and browse the USB drive through the Debian File manager program.

Unmounting a USB drive

Once you are done with using the mounted USB drive, you will need to unmount or detach it. But before going to unmount, make sure no other process is running on the drive, otherwise the drive will fail to detach and you will receive the error message.

To unmount the USB drive, type umount followed by the mount point directory or the device name as follows:

Or

For instance, in our case it would be:

Now the USB drive will be detached from the system and you will no longer see the mounted drive in your File manager.

After that, you can remove the mount point directory too by using the following command:

That is all there is to it! In this article, we have learned how to mount a USB drive in our Debian OS and also learned to safely unmount it. I hope it will be helpful whenever you need to mount/unmount the USB drive in your system.

Method 1: Format USB Drive Through The Terminal

To access the terminal, you must first open the Ubuntu Dash. This is where all Ubuntu software is accessible from. Once inside the Dash (located on the bottom left corner of the screen in the form of a “Show Applications” icon, ), type “terminal” in the search bar and click on the application of the Terminal that appears.

Use the keyboard shortcut which is Ctrl+Alt+T. If you are not familiar with keyboard shortcuts, they are the shortest way of performing an operation. Simply hold these three keys together and the Terminal application will open.

A new terminal window will open. Type the command “df” and press enter.

df returns a list of the details of all the partitions mounted to your device including the total space in each partition, the used space, and the available space.

From this list, locate your USB drive partition. A way to do that is to read the path of your partition from the Linux file manager and then search for that path in the list of partitions which came up in df.

As you can see, my USB drive partition is mounted on media/kausar/83F3-F8C7 and the corresponding Filesystem name which comes up under df is /dev/sdc1.

Therefore, the next command I will type is “sudo umount /dev/sdc1”. This command will unmount the USB drive partition from the device. Enter your Linux password and press enter.

The next and final (phew!) step is to format the USB drive. This is done with the command “sudo mkfs.vfat /dev/sdc1”. Note: This command formats the drive with the FAT32 format file system.

All done! To check if the USB drive has been formatted correctly, head on over to the file manager and open the USB drive. If it is empty, it has been formatted.

Method 2: Format USB Drive Through The Disks Utility

To access the Disks utility, navigate to the Dash icon (most probably located on the bottom left corner of the screen in the form of a “Show Applications” icon, , or as a Ubuntu icon). The Ubuntu Dash holds all the Ubuntu software available and installed on your device.

Type “Disks” in the resulting search bar and click on the Disks application that comes up.

It will open up in a new window. Locate your USB drive in the list of which appear in the left panel and click on it.

Next, under “Volumes”, of the three icons you see, click on the third gear icon, . A dropdown menu will appear. From the options displayed, click on “Format Partition”.

Set the name of your USB drive and select which type of file system format to format your USB to. Then select “Next”. A warning will pop up asking you to confirm the deletion of all your data in the USB drive. Select “Format” displayed in red on the top right corner to proceed with the formatting.

And that’s it. You’re done. These are the two easiest ways to format your USB drive and make it 100% available in space.

There are other methods of formatting a USB drive on Linux as well. For example, you can download a software called “GParted” from Ubuntu Software or the CLI. In case you experience trouble using the two methods described above, GParted offers a simple GUI to format USB drives and is an overall useful tool to have.

In the world of USB computer peripherals, almost everyone uses some sort of USB devices in their computer. These days there are USB webcams, USB hard drives, USB stick also known as PenDrive etc. Almost every device has a USB version of it. So if you’re using Linux, listing what USB device is connected to your system might be necessary at some point.

There are many programs and many ways to list USB devices on Linux.

In this article, I will show you how to list USB devices on Linux. I am using Ubuntu 18.04 Bionic Beaver for the demonstration, but these commands are available on every Linux distribution. So let’s get started.

Listing USB Devices using lsusb Command

The widely used lsusb command can be used to list all the connected USB devices in Linux.

As you can see from the output of the lsusb command in the screenshot below, all the connected USB device is listed. The Bus ID, Device ID, USB ID, and a title is displayed in the output of lsusb command.

As you can see in the marked section of the screenshot below, Realtek Semiconductor Corp. with ID 0bda:57cb, this is my USB Webcam.

You can’t tell that it’s a Webcam by looking at the output of lsusb command, Can you? Nope! So how do I know this? It’s because I checked the output of the lsusb command before and after connecting the USB Webcam and once I compared the outputs, the newly added row is the USB device I connected. Plain! But there are ways to find out what the USB device is.

You can use the dmesg command to find out more information about the connected USB devices. The last connected USB device is the easiest to find with dmesg command. It is more widely used for debugging purpose. You will shortly see why.

You run dmesg command as follows:

As you can see in the yellow marked box in the screenshot below, these are information about the USB device I connected last, which was my USB Webcam. You can see in one of the blue marked box, the USB device I connected is a HD UVC WebCam and its ID is 0bda:57cb.

By now you may have found out that the output of dmesg command is system log messages. Well yes, it is.

You can also search for a specific USB device by its ID in the dmesg system log.

Run the following command to open the output of dmesg command with less text pager:

You should see the following window:

Now to search for a string, press / key on your keyboard. And you should the a / appear on the bottom of terminal window as marked in the screenshot below.

Now type in the USB device ID. For example, earlier when I listed the connected USB devices with lsusb command, one of the USB device had ID 0bda:57cb

Type in the USB Device ID and press <Enter>. As you can see in the marked section of the screenshot below, the search string is marked white.

You may press <Up> and <Down> arrow keys to navigate up and down and read through it. You should find a lot of information about that USB device as you can see in the marked section of the screenshot below.

Listing USB devices with usb-devices Command

You can run the following command to list all the connected USB devices of your system:

As you can see in the screenshot below, all the connected USB devices are listed. we can find out pretty much the same information as before with usb-devices command.

Listing Block USB Devices

If you want to list all the USB block storage devices, that is all the USB storage devices, then you can use the lsblk or fdisk command to do so.

Listing USB block storage devices with lsblk:

As you can see in the screenshot below, all the available block storage devices (including the USB block storage devices) are listed.

You can get almost the same information as lsblk command with blkid command. But you have to run it as root as follows:

You can also use fdisk command to list all the USB block storage devices as follows:

As you can see in the screenshot below, the connected block storage devices (including the USB devices) are listed.

That’s how you list all the USB devices on Linux. Thanks for reading this article.

Many computer users who are thinking about giving Linux a try find themselves stuck because they don’t know how to create a bootable USB stick. In this article, we present four best Linux USB sticks available from Amazon Store. With our selection of bootable Linux USB sticks, you can skip the part where you have to create a bootable USB stick yourself and simply boot and install Linux without touching anything on your existing operating system.

Ubuntu 17.10 8 GB USB Stick

This 8 GB bootable USB stick comes with the latest version of Ubuntu Linux, which is one of the most user-friendly Linux distributions available. Ubuntu is based on Debian, inheriting its widely supported deb package format and package management tools. This ensures an abundant supply of software and excellent support from developers and fellow Ubuntu users alike.

Included with this Ubuntu 17.10 bootable USB stick is a handy installation guide with step-by-step instructions. Of course, you can also follow the official installation guide on Ubuntu’s website. Both installation guides are broken down into clear and easy-to-follow steps, and the installation process doesn’t take more than 20 minutes from start to finish even on older hardware.

Linux Mint Cinnamon 18.3 8 GB USB Stick

Linux Mint is a community-driven version of Ubuntu that comes bundled with proprietary software and device drivers. Because Linux Mint includes everything most users need, it’s perfect for Linux newbies who would like to switch to Linux without spending multiple hours every day fixing things that should work on any modern desktop operating system right out of the box.

This bootable Linux USB stick is 8 GB large, and it includes a handy boot repair tool and an install guide. Preinstalled on the USB stick is Linux Mint Cinnamon version 18.3, which is the latest version currently available. Cinnamon is a popular desktop environment based on Gnome 3. It shares many similarities with Windows, but it does things its own way where appropriate.

Kali Linux 2018.1 16 GB USB Stick

Kali Linux is a Linux distribution designed for penetration testing and ethical hacking. It comes with over 600 penetration-testing programs and countless hardware drivers for all kinds of internal and external network and wireless cards. Kali Linux can be installed on a hard drive just like Ubuntu or Linux Mint, but many penetration testers and ethical hackers actually run it directly from a USB stick.

This USB stick features the latest version of Kali Linux, and it offers 16 GB of storage space. It’s important to have enough storage space available when running Kali Linux from a USB stick because otherwise you would be limited in the number of data packets you could capture.

Multiboot 16 GB USB Stick

This multiboot USB stick features—not one—but 7 different Linux distributions: Solus-2017.04.18.0-Budgie, Elementary OS 0.4.1, Ubuntu 16.04.2 LTS, Linux Mint 18.02 Cinnamon, Fedora Workstation 25-1.3, Zorin 12.1 Core, and Kali Linux 2017.1.

Not all Linux distributions on the USB stick are up-to-date, but the included versions are recent enough to show you what each distribution is about, allowing you to quickly and painlessly pick the best one for you.

Although, it is a time-consuming task, but once you know how to mount USB drive in LINUX, you will feel lightened and it would be easier for you to perform it the next time when needed. If you are having an updated LINUX System, and a modern computer environment, then your device shall show up on the desktop of your PC itself, but to make it happen at even an older computer, you need to read this article.

Here, in this article, we will discuss about how to mount USB drive in LINUX along with instructions on how to create, delete & format a USB Drive straight from your LINUX system. This should be an easy task once you get the hang of it, just make sure you follow all the steps carefully and you won’t have problems the next time you decide to mount your USB drive in Linux.

1) Plug-in your USB drive to your PC

First, you need to plug in your USB drive to your LINUX-based personal computer (PC) in which you want to access the USB drive.

2) Detecting the USB Drive on PC

The second step is the most important and easy step to accomplish. After plugging-in your USB device to your LINUX system’s USB port, the system will add a new block device into the /dev/ directory. To check that, use the following command – Firstly, open your command line and write the following command in CLI:

The resulting screen should be seen with the text like this:

The result above shows that device boot, blocks, id and system format are displayed.

After this step, you will need to create a mount point.  In order to do so,

3) Create a Mount Point

In this step, we will guide you to create the mount point. Just type the following command to move forward:

In above given command, ‘sbd1’ refers to the name of your USB Device.

4) Creating a Directory in the USB Drive

Next, you will be required to create a directory in the mounted device. For that, use the following  command:

Above commands will create a directory named ‘John’ in the USB Drive. You can create the directory of your desired name by replacing it with John. e.g.

This command will create a directory in the USB Drive with the name ‘Google’.

This step will complete your query of how to mount USB Drive in LINUX. After this step, a new directory will be created

5) Delete a Directory in USB Drive

After telling you about creating a Directory on your USB, its time to learn about how you can delete a directory on your USB Drive. To delete a directory, write the following command:

The above given command will delete the drive named as ‘John’. But if you want to delete a directory with your desired name, just replace it with ‘John’. e.g.

The above code deletes the directory named ‘Google’. Similarly, you can write any of your desired name to delete a directory on your USB Drive on a LINUX operated computer.

6) Formatting the Mounted USB in LINUX

In order to format a USB Flash Drive, you need to unmount the drive first. Use following command to un-mount the USB:

In above-given command, ‘sbd1’ refers to the name of your USB Device. Next, you have to choose either of the following codes as per your USB Drive file systems:

• For VFAT (FAT32) File System
  To format VFAT (FAT32) file system, use:
  $ sudo mkfs.vfat /dev/sdb1

  In above given command, ‘sbd1’ refers to the name of your USB Device.

• For NTFS File System
  To format NTFS file system USB Drive, use:
  $ sudo mkfs.ntfs /dev/sdb1

  In above given command, ‘sbd1’ refers to the name of your USB Device.

• For EXT4 File System
  For formatting EXT4 file system USB Drive, use:
  $ sudo mkfs.ext4 /dev/sdb1

  In above given command, ‘sbd1’ refers to the name of your USB Device.

With that I have showed you the basics of mounting UBS drives on linux.

Etcher is an image writer application available for all major Operating systems. It is used for flashing OS images on USB drives or SD Cards. It is also used to burn ISO images directly on Raspberry Pi; it ensures that data is written correctly and protects the accidental hard drive data writing. This post contains the step-by-step guide from downloading and installing Etcher to burn an image on the USB drive in any Linux-based operating system using the Etcher Image Writer Application by Balena.

Step 1: Download the Balena Etcher AppImage File

The first step for getting started with the Etcher is to download the AppImage file from the official website of Balena.io. Visit the provided link below

https://www.balena.io/etcher/

Click on the green-colored “Download for Linux x64” button, as shown in the picture below.

Or you can also download different Etcher installation files based on your Operating system by clicking on the arrow on the right side of the “Download for Linux x64” button.

For installing it on Linux operating system, The default recommended File is perfectly fine.

Click on the “Save File” and hit “OK” in the bottom right corner.

The Downloading of the Balena Etcher zipped file will start and complete in a while.

Once the Zipped file of Etcher is downloaded, open the Downloads folder or where the Balena Etcher zip file for Linux is downloaded.

Step 2: Extract the downloaded Zipped file of Etcher

Extract the Etcher file by right-clicking on the zipped file and selecting the “Extract here” option.

Once it is extracted, you will have an extracted folder like this.

Open the extracted folder of Etcher, in which you will see an AppImage file of Etcher.

But, you first have to make this AppImage file executable.

Step 3: Make the AppImage file of Etcher executable

To make this file executable, right-click on it.

Open up the “Properties”.

Go to the “Permissions” tab.

And check the highlighted checkbox if it is not already checked, as shown in the picture above.

Once you have followed this procedure, The Appimage file of Etcher is ready for use. Close the pop-up box and run the Etcher application.

Step 4: Run the Etcher Application

Double click on the AppImage file of Etcehr to run it on your Ubuntu 20.04 LTS system.

Here you can have a fresh look at the Etcher Application.

Step 5: Select the Image file

First, select the file picker’s image file by clicking on the “Flash from file” button. From the file picker, navigate to the directory where the image file is placed to which you want to burn on a USB Drive, select the image, and click on the “open” button in the top right corner, as shown in the picture below.

Step 6: Select the Target Device

Once the image is selected, Select the target like a USB Drive on which you want to write the selected image by clicking on the “Select Target button”, as shown in the picture below.

A dialog box will appear for selecting the USB Drive or SD Cards. Select the USB Drive on which you want to write the image file.

Note: You can also select multiple Targets for writing the same image on all the selected targets.

After selecting the USB Drive or SD card, click on the “Select” button at the bottom of the dialog box, as shown in the picture below.

After selecting the Image file and target device, the USB Drive is ready to Flash.

Step 7: Flash the Drive

Click on the Flash button, and it will ask you to enter the password, so enter the password to authenticate the process.

After entering the password, click on the Authenticate button, and it starts flashing your USB Drive or SD Card.

The Etcher will take some time based on the image file’s size to finish the flashing process. Once Etcher is done with the flashing process, you are ready to eject the device and use it where it is needed.

Conclusion

Etcher is a very useful application available in Linux for writing images on SD cards and USB Drives. This post contains a very easy and step-by-step guide to install and use the Etcher Application on Ubuntu 20.04 LST system by Balena.

With Lili, you can also directly run any distribution of Linux on your Windows desktop. This can come in especially handy when you’re new to Linux and unsure about which distribution would fit your performance requirements and need to do some testing before making any permanent changes.

Feature highlights

1-The latest version for Linux Live USB Creator 20.9 supports the following Linux distributions:

• Ubuntu Studio 20.04 (DVD)
• Ubuntu 18.10 “Utopic Unicorn” (Unity/KDE/Xfce/LXDE/GNOME)
• UbuntuKylin 20.04 “Utopic Unicorn”
• KNOPPIX 7.4.2
• Gparted Live CD 0.20.0-2
• CentOS 8.0 (CD)
• Debian Live 7.6.0 (Gnome/KDE/LXDE/Xfce/Standard)
• CentOS 8.0 (DVD) (Gnome/KDE)
• CDlinux 0.9.7.1
• ReactOS 0.3.17
• Lightweight Portable Security 1.5.5 (Deluxe)
• Edubuntu 20.04.1 (DVD)
• Ubuntu 20.04.1 “Trusty Tahr” (Unity/KDE/Xfce/LXDE/GNOME)
• Ubuntu 20.04 LTS and Variants
• Gentoo Live DVD 20140826 x86/amd64
• Mythbuntu 20.04.1 LTS
• Trisquel 7.0
• Puppy Linux 6.0 (Tahrpup)
• SystemRescueCD 4.4.0

2- 64-bit variants now much better supported

3-Newer versions autodetect Syslinux, INITRD, and VMLINUZ files

4- Retry formats 5 times, each with five seconds delay.

5- VM type is set to favor 64-bit Linux by default.

6- Error message is displayed should the formatting fails

7- Program comes with autorun creation disabled by default, can be manually enabled.

Setting up Linux Live USB Creator 2.9 for Ubuntu 20.04

Say you need to test out the latest Ubuntu Linux, as it is often recommended to those new to Linux for its simple interface. To test out Ubuntu on your Windows desktop, you’d need to install the Linux Live USB creator first.

Click the link below to head over to the official download page for Linux Live USB Creator 2.9

* Download the Latest LinuxLive USB Creator here*

Wait for the installation to finish. Once installed, jack in your USB to the desktop, then proceed to choose the ISO image for the Linux distro you’d like to run. Then click the icon as shown in the screenshot below:

You’ll be verified of the virtualization attempt with the following message:

“Your Linux Live key is now up and ready! ”

Then restart your device with the USB plugged in and start using Ubuntu Linux.

Wrapping up

This tutorial illustrated how to install Linux Live USB Creator 2.9 and showed how to boot your Windows machine with a Linux OS distribution. We just downloaded and installed the latest LiLi software off of their official website to demonstrate how to create portable and bootable USB drives to run Ubuntu Linux on your desktop.

NOTE: Because LiLi hasn’t been updated in three years, you’ll most likely encounter some problems working with updated operating systems and drivers. So keep in mind that some of the virtualization attempts you make might fail due to incompatibility.

Regardless, you should be able to do your thing without any problems.