Sneakernet refers to the practice of physically carrying a portable storage device like a USB flash drive between computers to transfer data. While local networks are common nowadays, sneakernet still offers a solution when sharing limitations or software issues prevent data transfer over a network.
The term “sneakernet” was coined during the early days when floppy disks were the primary transport medium. However, with the popularity of USB flash drives, sneakernet has become a reliable method for data transfer when USB drive copy limitations are not in place. This is because copying files to and from a USB drive is a local process on both ends.
With the advent of USB flash drives, portable disk cartridges that replaced floppies became obsolete. Today, sneakernet remains a useful option for transferring data between computers.
FAQ
What is sneakernet?
Sneakernet refers to physically carrying a portable storage device between computers to transfer data.
Why is sneakernet still used?
Sneakernet remains useful for transferring data when sharing limitations or software issues prevent data transfer over a network. It is also reliable when USB drive copy limitations are not in place.
What replaced floppies in sneakernet?
With the popularity of USB flash drives, portable disk cartridges that replaced floppies became obsolete in sneakernet.
Final Thoughts
Sneakernet is a simple but effective method of transferring data without a network. By carrying a portable storage device like a USB flash drive between computers, data can be copied and shared locally. Despite being around for decades, sneakernet remains relevant and useful even with the availability of local networks.
