A USB flash drive is a compact, portable and convenient device that allows you to capture all your data, store it and also transfer it to other computers easily. However, it is very important to protect USB data as carrying so much data in such a small device is a risky thing. This article will tell you how to protect USB using different techniques.
Steps to Protect USB using password:
- The first step involves encrypting all the files and folders on the Flash drive.
- In the menu bar, select the “Tools” option and click on “Options”.
- A pop-up window will appear on your screen, from which you need to choose “Security” option. Now, set your password in the section named “Password to modify” or “Password to open”.
- Confirm your password again and then click “OK”.
- Drag these password protected files to your flash drive. You will now be asked for the password whenever you try to access the files.
Learn to protect USB through encryption:
- Download the software program Cryptainer LE on your computer and install it.
- Now, create a password between 8 – 100 characters long and select the location and size of the file; you can change this later.
- Enter the password when you are prompted for it.
- Install Cryptainer Mobile and select “Tools” options from the menu bar. Now, click on “Install Cryptainer Mobile” and follow the program’s instructions.
- Now, select a location and set a password for this program. Drag all your important files and folder in this encrypted location.
How to protect USB using FreeOTFE software
- Go to the website www.FreeOTFE.org and download the software on your computer; then install it.
- Click on the “New” option on the top and create a virtual encrypted disk by following the wizard’s instructions.
- Click on the “Mount” icon to mount the disk and type in the filename of the encrypted disk that you created. This is your password.
- Fill all your private data in this disk.
- Now, click on the “Dismount” option in the toolbar and dismount the encrypted file and move it to an external storage device such as a CD, USB drive or DVD.
- Now, whenever you want to access your data, simply “Mount” the file, enter the filename and you will be able to view your data.
Know to password protect USB:
- Take an empty USB stick. Download TrueCrypt software from the website www.truecrypt.org and install it on your computer.
- Click on “Create volume” option to create the standard TrueCrypt volume.
- Next, click on the “Select device” option, locate your USB and click on OK.
- Click the “Next” button to view all the encryption options, select the volume size and set your password.
- Move the mouse on “next dialog” tab and start the TrueCrypt encryption. Now, click on “Format” to format the drive.
- Now, if you want to access your USB drive, just click on “select drive” in TrueCrypt and select your drive here. You will have to type in the password to view your data.
- You have successfully password protected your flash drive.
Tips & Warnings to protect USB
- Cover your USB stick or place a cap on it when it is not in use to prevent dust or liquid from getting into it and damaging it.
- When you transport USB drives, always keep them with you by putting them in a keychain, a necklace or a safe bag.
- Never pull your USB stick in between viewing the data on it as it may damage it. Always eject it after you have accessed your files.
- Store your USB drive in an area that is free from extreme temperatures to prevent it from getting damaged.
- Always choose a password that it easy for you to remember but nearly impossible for others to guess.
Related Content: