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Is it possible to install Windows OS to plug and play storage devices such as external hard drives, HDD enclosures (with SATA hard drives), USB flashdrives and the likes? What OS's? And if it's possible, can I boot on it after the installation/formatting?
I've read someone has tried this already using Windows XP but failed since XP reinitializes all attached USB devices before loading OS, thus disabling the External HDD that is attached via USB port.
What about other Windows OS: on Windows 7 or 8.... or Windows 10?
I'm asking this because I'm planning to create a portable OS. When I'm at my house, when I go to my grandmother's, or to a friend's place: I just simple plug that portable storage device, change the boot priority, and turn on the system and ta-da! I will only see one environment every time.
But how about those "true" hard disk drives that are connected via HDD enclosures? Are they legible for this? My current plan is uses a laptop hard disk with preexisting Windows 8 OS installed. – Gideon – 2015-08-21T07:31:00.613
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It would appear not. The list of compatible drives is in the FAQ referenced above Hardware considerations for Windows To Go. Answer updated.
– DavidPostill – 2015-08-21T07:33:57.8231True hardrives work perfectly... if you use eSATA. I even got an old copy of XP around on an eSATA based pendrive. Sadly USB is much more common and this might defeat your goal if one of the computer you want to use lacks this port. – Hennes – 2015-08-21T11:00:15.250
@Hennes Yes, but do they work with Windows To Go? – DavidPostill – 2015-08-21T11:01:39.440