How to Copy Files Larger than 4GB to USB

When we use a USB drive, our primary need is usually data storage. But what if your USB drive can't copy files larger than 4GB and throws an error? This is a common issue with USB drives when it comes to storage. The problem stems from the USB format. In this article, we will guide you through the process of transferring files larger than 4GB to your USB drive.

1. The Reason

The sole reason you can't copy files larger than 4GB to your USB drive is the format of the USB itself. The common formats for USB drives today are FAT32 and NTFS. FAT32, built in the early days, still has many drawbacks stemming from the subjective nature of early computing. Nobody back then anticipated files larger than 4GB, so they kept them under that limit. Enter NTFS, which solves all the limitations of FAT32. NTFS doesn't restrict file size when copying data to a USB drive.

2. Solution Approach

There's only one way to handle this issue: formatting your USB drive to NTFS. Formatting a USB drive on Windows is straightforward nowadays. You can format it directly on your computer or through CMD. In this article, we'll guide you through both methods.

Using Command Prompt (CMD)

Step 1: Launch CMD by typing CMD into the Start Menu and hitting Enter.

Step 2: Check which drive letter your USB is assigned to. Drive letters typically include C:, D:, F:, E:,… In this article by Software Tricks, it's E:

Step 3: Once the CMD window appears, enter the following command:

Example: Convert E: /fs:ntfs

Step 4: You'll receive a notification confirming that your drive has been successfully converted!

Now you can comfortably copy data larger than 4GB to your USB drive.

Direct Formatting on Computer (Data Loss)

Note: Backup your data on the USB to prevent loss.

Step 1: Right-click on your USB drive where you want to copy files larger than 4GB and select Format.

Step 2: When the Format window appears, you can configure the following information:

• Capacity: USB capacity
• File System: Format, you must select NTFS
• Allocation unit size: Leave it default at 4096 bytes
• Volume label: USB name
• Quick Format: Fast format

Once you've finished configuring, click Start to begin formatting your USB.

After formatting, your USB will be in NTFS format, and you can freely copy files larger than 4GB.

In this article, Software Tips has guided you on how to quickly copy files larger than 4GB to your USB drive!