CSI allows you to install the full licensed version of ETABS (v20+) onto an external Encrypted USB 3.0 SSD. You still need to plug in the hardware lock (USB dongle), but you do not need to install on the host machine.
CSI offers a 12-month Student License for approximately $100-$150 USD (or free via university site licenses). This is not portable, but it allows installation on a personal laptop. csi etabs 9.7 portable.exe
ETABS, including version 9.7, is known for its: CSI allows you to install the full licensed
ETABS is widely used in the construction industry by structural engineers for: including version 9.7