Windows Readyboost: what is it?

When you insert a USB stick, Windows usually shows that you can use the drive for Windows Readyboost. In this practical tip, we will explain what that really is.

Faster with cache: Windows Readyboost

Normal hard drives have a high access time compared to flash memories. Readyboost extends the cache of the hard disk by the storage space that is available, for example, with a USB stick. So it is theoretically possible that your system runs faster. The technology is particularly noticeable in systems with little RAM. Here's what you should know:

• So that your system is not slowed down, Windows first carries out a speed test. Only then can you decide how much storage space on the stick / SD card you want to make available as an additional cache.
• Readyboost has been supported since Windows Vista. However, with Vista you can use a maximum of four GB as an external cache. From Windows 7, up to 32 GB per storage medium are possible, of which you can use up to eight.
• In order for you to be able to use more than four GB in Windows 7, the data medium must be NTFS or exFAT formatted. Other supported file systems are FAT and FAT32. Windows Vista requires at least Service Pack 1 so that you can use exFAT-formatted sticks for Readyboost.

Another practical tip will show you how to use Readyboost correctly.