The safe way to remove a USB key

To improve performance Windows will often delay copying files to a USB key until the computer is sitting idle. This is why you should always use the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Notification Area to make sure there is nothing outstanding otherwise files could be lost or corrupted.

To minimise risk at the cost of some performance this pause can be disabled. Click on the Start button and then My Computer. Right-click on a USB memory key and left-click on Properties. Click on the Hardware tab and then on the USB memory key.

They are not always clearly identified so it is best to make this change with only one key connected. Click on Properties and then the Policies tab. Select the top option ‘Optimize for quick removal’ and click on OK. This setting is linked to individual USB keys.

It is still a good idea to still use the Safely remove hardware icon just in case the drive is working without you being aware of it.
Stuart Waters