Think of it as more powerful than the FAT32 but less muscle than the NTFS file system. When NTFS isn’t an option and FAT32 doesn’t provide enough space, exFAT fills the gap. In 2019, exFAT technical specifications went public for use in other operating systems.
#Fat32 usb format tool windows
ExFATĮxtensible File Allocation Table, or exFat, also known as FATex, emerged as a file system with Windows in November 2006. The single-volume size limit is 16 EB ( exabytes), so space isn’t an issue. NTFS file systems can handle individual files larger than you would find on current commercial drives. It’s also the standard file system for modern Windows operating systems. With NTFS bootable USB drives, you get metadata support and improved data structure.Īdditional extensions enhanced security features and improved the overall system. Of note, macOS can read but not write to NTFS formatted drives. NTFS bootable USB drives support non-Windows systems, including Linux and macOS. New Technology File System, commonly referred to as NTFS, is another brainchild from Microsoft. Though FAT file systems began with Microsoft Windows computers, it’s no longer the default option.įAT32 file systems have individual size limits of less than 4 GB and single volume limits of less than 8 TB, significantly smaller than most modern operating systems. Subsequent variations include FAT12 and FAT16, with the number representing the disk drive capacity. Initially, the file system worked with floppy disks as an 8-Bit FAT, but the file system evolved to keep up with technological advancements. The new file system included a larger memory footprint and used a 32-bit number system.
#Fat32 usb format tool update
FAT32įAT32 emerged as an update from Microsoft in 1996 with the Windows 95 release. Though you could find other file systems to use, your best bets are bootable USB NTFS, FAT32, or FATex. The Most Common File Systems and How They Differ It’s basically an organizational system that helps your computer function.įile systems manage space and storage, store file names, include directories for organization, and maintain metadata. The file system is the method used to store and retrieve data. Essentially, it makes your computer run and do all the fun tasks you like to perform.
#Fat32 usb format tool software
Your operating system is the software that manages your computer’s hardware, software resources, and computer programs.