> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://documentation.hak5.org/packet-squirrel-mark-ii/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://documentation.hak5.org/packet-squirrel-mark-ii/getting-started/usb-storage-support.md).

# USB storage support

The Packet Squirrel supports USB storage formatted with **ext4**, **exfat**, **fat32**, or **NTFS** filesystems.

USB storage devices should be attached to the USB-A port on the right-hand side of the Packet Squirrel.

Most USB drives ship pre-formatted with **fat32** or **exfat**. To use these drives, typically no extra action is needed.

{% hint style="info" %}
**What filesystem to pick?**

Often it won't matter what filesystem you pick, however there are some general guidelines:

* ext4 is often the fastest filesystem, as it is native to Linux.  You can format a USB drive as ext4 with a Linux system or Linux in a VM, but most other operating systems won't be able to use an ext4 drive directly.
* fat32 is an older filesystem type and is limited to 4GB per file and 2TB disks.
* exfat is widely compatible, but slow.
  {% endhint %}

## Encryption

The Packet Squirrel also supports encrypted storage for increased protection of data at rest.

USB encryption requires extra setup steps and payload configurations; to find out more about encrypting USB storage, see the [USB encryption](/packet-squirrel-mark-ii/advanced-payloads/usb-encryption.md) page for advanced payloads.


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