Assuming you ignored all the warnings above and managed to get a version running via a complex init() script, the USB bottleneck would ruin your research.
Modern versions of NVivo (Versions 12, 14, and 15) support or NVivo for Teams . More importantly, a standard license allows you to install the software on up to two computers (e.g., your work PC and your home laptop).
Qualitative analysis is computationally heavy. Running NVivo 10 portably allows a researcher to move between a powerful desktop for heavy coding and a lightweight laptop for transcription, maintaining a consistent workspace environment regardless of the machine being used.
that locks your research files until a fee is paid.
NVivo 10 Software Portable: Risks, Realities, and Legitimate Alternatives
Experts and official guides warn against running NVivo projects directly from flash drives or network drives, as this frequently leads to file corruption and permanent data loss.
If an error occurs while using a portable version, you cannot contact QSR International (now Lumivero) for technical assistance. Legacy versions like NVivo 10 are already outside their standard support window, and pirated copies offer no recourse when things go wrong. Legitimate Alternatives for Portable and Flexible Research
While the idea of a free, plug-and-play research tool sounds convenient, using cracked or portable versions of NVivo carries massive risks to your research, your data, and your computer hardware. 🛑 The Critical Hidden Risks of Portable QDA Software
What are you running (Windows 11, Mac, etc.)? How many interviews or documents do you need to analyze? Are you affiliated with a university or institution ?