If you want a USB flash drive to require a password before its files can be read, use encryption rather than simply hiding files or changing folder permissions. Windows editions that include BitLocker To Go can encrypt removable drives.
Encrypt a USB drive with BitLocker To Go
- Back up important files from the USB drive.
- Connect the drive to the Windows 11 PC.
- Open the BitLocker drive-encryption controls and find the removable drive.
- Select Turn on BitLocker.
- Choose the password option when available and create a strong password.
- Save the recovery key somewhere separate from the USB drive.
- Choose the appropriate encryption options and start encryption.
Protect the recovery key
The recovery key can unlock the encrypted drive if the password is forgotten. Do not store the only copy of the recovery key on the USB drive it protects.
Compatibility can matter
A BitLocker-encrypted removable drive is designed primarily for supported Windows environments. If the drive must regularly work with macOS, Linux, televisions, printers, or other devices, verify compatibility before encrypting it.
Windows edition matters
BitLocker management capabilities vary by Windows edition and device configuration. On a work computer, encryption settings and recovery-key storage may be controlled by the organization.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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