Since you cannot easily write this data to a standard thumb drive, an "emulator" is used. This is a driver that tricks the software into thinking the physical USB key is plugged in when it is actually just a set of instructions in your system registry. Step-by-Step: Backup and Recovery Concepts 1. Identifying the Dongle Type
Backing up a dongle you legally own for the purposes of archiving and disaster recovery is generally permitted in many jurisdictions under "fair use" for interoperability. However: usb dongle backup and recovery 2012 proexe link
USB flash memory and security chips have a finite lifespan. After a decade, bit rot or physical wear is common. Since you cannot easily write this data to