USB applications are portable software that only functions from USB memory drives rather than their host computers. The popularity of Portable USB apps has considerably increased over the past years, mainly for their easy on-the-go access and the ability to perform similar applications to those performed by Macs or PCs. And the greatest news is that most of them are free to download and use.
These applications are particularly useful if you have to regularly use foreign computers. When you plug the device into the host PC, portable applications are launched from their own menus. And, what’s more, you don’t need to install anything on the host computer, thus leaving absolutely no traces.
Below you can find a list of the most popular portable USB applications, along with a brief description of what each one of them offers:
VLC Media Player
A great USB application for a versatile, yet simple and easy to use, media player. Apart from having a minimal start-up time, this media player supports a wide range of formats and files that include CDs, DVDs, and digital streaming. It allows you to preview video and audio files during downloads. Its plain design leaves more room for viewing purposes. The included codec packs will save you from downloading any other codecs separately.
Abiword
This free application is the perfect tool for word processing. Abiword is able to read the most common files types – such as Word Perfect, Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or html pages – and can efficiently convert documents to a chosen file format. In addition, this program also features the grammar and spelling check.
Filezilla
It is the portable and free version of the famous FTP tool that can handle both server and client functions. Its simple interface allows portable files editing, along with an additional drag-and-drop tool. This amazing USB application also features timeout detection, along with download and upload abilities, thus becoming a vital tool for on-the-go file management.
TrueCrypt
This portable USB application is perfect if you wish to keep your files safe, especially when traveling. Using real-time encryption algorithms, this portable encryption app provides protection and privacy for all your sensitive information. This program also allows you to set up hard-to-crack passwords. Nonetheless, should these passwords be lost, your stored information might become irretrievable. As soon as these keys and passwords are decrypted for PC use, all the stored files will function as normal.
Puppy Linux
This software is designed for USB drive-compatible operating systems, and it is able to execute fast boot-ups and an effective thumb drive use. Its simple desktop layout makes it easy to use and visually attractive. Puppy allows you to use varied web browsers, including Netsurf, Opera, Firefox etc. The system is able to perform all the necessary basic functions and much more: data compression and FTP, graphics editor, email, disc burner, media player, word processor, file manager, web browser, and many other functions.
CCleaner
This amazingmaintenanceUSBapplication will purge and tidy up all the unwanted cookies, history, and temporary files. It will also handle all the unwanted entries in all registries. CCleaner will not only make your system run significantly faster, but it will also ensure more privacy. Due to its portability features, this application can be perfectly used on-the-go should the systems be slowed down by excessive files.
Firefox
The portable version of the famous browser will provide you with a feeling of comfort, as if you were browsing at home. This amazing application will carry all your passwords, web history, bookmarked favourites, and even the cookies. The application’s features include automatic updates and pop-up blocking. The program is perfectly compatible with Mac and Windows. Using this web browser will help you keep the system you work from safe.
Sudoku
This thought-provoking puzzle game is, by far, one of the most famous games developed over the past years. By storing this application on a memory drive, you will be able to use it whenever and wherever you go. Depending on your skill set, you can choose from various difficulty levels. Its user-friendly interface will allow you to adapt the size of the numbers to your vision. If you find it impossible to solve the puzzle, there is an available command that will allow you to see the solution.
Skype
Undoubtedly, Skype is one of the most popular and widely used communication tools. The reasons why are easy to see! The portable version of this application features most – if not all – of the characteristics of the desktop version. The portable version allows you to transfer files, instant message all your worldwide contacts, or make Internet voice calls. In addition, the application runs without the need to install it to the hard drive. Moreover, it even eliminates lag time.
FrostWire Portable
This is a written in Java peer-to-peer file sharing application that includes bittorrent, gnutella, and other similar capabilities. This amazing application will allow you to easily share and download all your favourite executable programs, games, videos, audio, text, or image files.
PStart
This amazing portable launcher was specifically conceived to run portable apps. Being extremely easy to use, it will provide you with quick access to all the tools stored on your USB memory drive.
Apart from allowing you to carry around your favourite software, or edit all your documents on the go, these wonderful applications will practically make any computer feel like your own. However, if you wish to make the most of all these available portable USB applications, make sure to always keep them updated and keep an eye on the newest releases. Despite the fact that many applications are still not available in a portable format, software suppliers are perfectly aware of the fact that people love to carry their favourite apps around. So just be patient!