With our reliance on technology increasing on an almost daily basis, it’s no surprise that the UK tech sector is now worth over $1 trillion. And the humble USB has been the unsung hero in the evolution and growth of the industry.
USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. These mini flash drives have been used since 1999. Designed to store and backup data, as well as transfer information from one device to another.
USB ports and connectors are commonly used for charging portable devices like phones, tablets, consoles and headphones, and other devices. As we move from USB 2.0 to USB 3.0 homes and businesses will benefit from this evolution and realise just how important USB technology is for modern life and modern business.
Speed
In such a fast-paced world, speed is of the utmost importance. Users are able to insert a USB thumb drive into virtually any device with a USB port and select only the data they want to download or open rather than having to use the whole storage file.
Because USBs don’t require an internet connection, data transfer can be almost instantaneous depending on the size of the file.
Storage
As we continue to transfer large volumes of data, USB technology has kept up with our demands. Some USBs are capable of storing up to 2TB of data, so there’s no longer the need to carry around large drives and even laptops that could be stolen when travelling between meetings.
Compatibility
Perhaps one of the most beneficial properties of a USB is its virtual universal compatibility. USBs can be used with almost any device, laptop or PC as long as there’s a USB port.
Following the EU Parliament’s announcement that tech companies must create a universal charger, consumers will only see an increase in the compatibility of USB drives and ports.
Easy to use
Alongside the myriad benefits of USBs, perhaps the best is that they’re simple to use and still extremely useful. Despite our reliance on cloud-based technology and the internet, the humble USB works without the need to be connected. This could prove invaluable in the wake of huge data breaches and cyber-security issues.
USB security
Whilst the USB is undeniably a valuable asset for any tech-based business, companies need to implement security management systems to limit the chance of data breaches.
Because of how compact USB flash drives are it can be easy for a disgruntled employee to steal data using a USB drive. To reduce the likelihood of this happening, businesses can employ a USB security management system.
Staff training will also play an important role in ensuring USBs aren’t used for personal use. Several USB security systems can monitor the machines, seeing which employees are transferring what files.
So, whilst the USB may be small, it is a mighty tool in the tech sector’s arsenal.
