Thread: Can I autorun software from a USB key.

Having installed an application (a .exe file) on my 2GB USB memory key, I would like to know whether it is possible for this program to start up automatically when I insert the memory key into a USB port on the Pc.
I know this can be done for CDs and DVDs using the Autoplay facility, but is it possible to do the same for a USB memory key. I'm using Vista.

This was quite hard to do in Windows XP because it specifically prevented USB keys from using the Autorun feature.

In Vista it's easier because Ailtorun is allowed for USB disks. To use it, create the same autorun.inf file in the main folder of the USB disk as you would for a CD. When you insert the USB key into the computer you will be given the option to start the program.

If you want to make it completely automatic, click the link marked 'Set Autoplay defaults in Control Panel' that appears at the bottom of the Autoplay dialogue box. From here you can make the disk start by itself next time it's inserted.

This will work on your computer, of course, but the behaviour will not transfer to other computers-if you give the USB memory key to another Vista user, they will see the same dialogue box and be given the option to start the program.

If you want that to happen automatically in future, you or they will have to make the same Control Panel change, as above.

If you don't have much experience with the autorun.inf file and want to know more about how it works, more information on that, along with more detailed instructions for getting USB memory keys to automatically play.