

In brief, you’ll need to download and run a small tool called Etcher, which will take the Ubuntu OS and convert it into a suitable format that can run entirely from a USB drive. For example, here are the instructions for running Ubuntu from a USB drive. Instructions for installing your chosen version of Linux on a USB stick should be available on the distro’s official site (if not, you can pick a different one). Have a look around to see which distro might suit you best. The open-source Linux OS is perfect for this, and several distributions of Linux can be run in a portable mode, including Linux Lite, Puppy Linux, and MX Linux. We’ve mentioned portable apps, but you can also carry an entire computer with you on a USB drive-operating system, applications, files, and all. Microsoft has its own virus scanner that can run from a USB drive too: Microsoft Safety Scanner. Then there’s Avira Rescue System, which can scan for and repair various problems with the settings and configuration of Windows. Emsisoft Emergency Kit is a virus scanner that’s a useful starting point, while Dr.Web CureIt! will scan your computer for common malware that may have taken root. Which troubleshooting tools you pick for your USB drive are up to you, but there are plenty of good, free ones out there. USB Flash Drive 1TB, Portable Thumb Drives 1000GB: USB 3.0 Memory Stick, Ultra Large Storage USB 3.0 Drive, High-Speed 1TB Jump Drive, 1000GB Swivel Design Zip Drive for PC/Laptop 4.
