How to Transfer Files Larger than 4GB to USB Flash Drive?

In our daily lives, we often run into situations where we need to copy a single file that's bigger than 4GB onto a USB drive. But here's the catch: most USB flash drives come with the FAT32 file system by default, which can't handle files larger than 4GB. So, what can we do about it?

1. Change the File System

First off, let's figure out what kind of file system your USB drive is using. Check out this article: How to Choose between FAT32, NTFS, and exFAT for Your USB Drives.

Once you know what type your USB drive has, how do you go about changing it?

          ✅  **Backup Your Files**: As converting the file system will format the USB driver, make sure to back up all your files first.

          ✅  **Format the Flash Drive**: Right-click on your USB drive on My Computer (or this PC), select "Format," and change the "File System" from "FAT32 (default)" to either "NTFS" or "exFAT." 3. **Conversion Done**: After formatting is finished, your USB drive will now be set up as NTFS or exFAT—now you can easily copy files larger than 4GB onto it!

2. Split Large Files into Smaller Ones

Besides changing the file system, another option is to compress those big files into smaller chunks before copying them over to a USB stick. While this method isn't as straightforward as just converting formats, it's still pretty handy in some cases! You can use compression software like WinRAR or 7-Zip to split large files into smaller parts that are each under 4GB and then transfer them one by one onto your USB drive. When you're ready to access those files again, just use the same software to decompress and put them back together.

3. Buy a new high-capacity USB thumb drive

Also, if your USB flash drive doesn't have enough space, even converting the file system won't help you copy those large files. In that case, you'll need to grab a USB stick with more memory. When you're shopping for one, it's best to go with a well-known brand and buy from trusted places so you don't end up with some cheap knockoff or low-quality USB drives. Those can be super unreliable and cause all sorts of headaches.

By following these tips, you'll easily tackle the issue of not being able to copy big files onto your USB drive and boost your work efficiency!

Small Storage, Beautiful Life. 

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