How to Encrypt USB Flash Drive in Windows 10 – Guide

A USB drive is a portable device that offers a convenient way to store and/or transfer your data, although it can present a number of security risks. Fortunately, you can encrypt a USB drive and protect your confidential files and data as they are transferred between different locations. You should note that encryption does not protect your data and files from password spying methods and password harvesting malware. It is simply a way to prevent your sensitive and confidential files and data from falling into the wrong hands or being accessed by unauthorized people through security incidents and data breaches. Flash drives and SD cards are useful tools for data transfer. However, with convenience and portability comes a security risk. This is where encryption becomes valuable, and BitLocker in Windows 10 makes it easy. Additionally, Windows 10 version 1151 has a new and improved encryption algorithm. Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved into the understanding of this operating system, with expertise in drivers and driver troubleshooting.

How to Encrypt USB Flash Drive in Windows 10

New encryption mode

BitLocker in Windows 10 version 1511 (November Update) now includes 256-bit XTS-AES encryption mode, which provides additional integrity support with the improved algorithm. However, it is not available on older versions of Windows. You must choose which method you want to use. So if you only want to use that drive on the PC you’re encrypting it on, you’ll probably want to use the new encryption mode. However, if you need to use the drive on other PCs with older versions of Windows (which is probably the case with a flash drive or SD card), choose compatible mode, which uses the earlier 128-bit AES. Now you can start encrypting the drive. The execution time depends on your system specifications, the amount of data and the size of the drive. Now, when connecting the encrypted drive, you will be asked to enter the password you created for it. You can also select other options and unlock the drive automatically on this PC or enter the recovery key in case you forgot the password. You can tell if a drive is encrypted by the padlock symbol by opening “This PC”. That’s all there is to it. Now the data on your flash drive is much more secure.

Final note

I hope you like the guide How to Encrypt USB Flash Drive in Windows 10. In case if you have any query regards this article you may ask us. Also, please share your love by sharing this article with your friends.