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Listener Scott in Jackson, Mississippi listens on 97.3 FM and is calling via the App asked Dave and the Into Tomorrow team:
How can I password protect my external hard drive?
Well Scott, usually your external hard drive should come with software that will allow you to password protect your device easily– but in the unusual case that it doesn’t, there are some softwares available for download that can get that done for you. In the case that you locate the build-in software at a later time, we recommend using that one rather than one of the suggestions we’re about to throw at you because it’s likely suggested by the manufacturer.
One option is to download Folder Lock, an application that will protect against prying eyes who are trying to access all your most sensitive documents. With the full-version, you can lock files and folders using a simple drag-and-drop method, protect locked data, clean window and browser history, feel guarded with secure file, folder and drive shredding, and more. Probably one of the neatest features is that with a cloud backup, you can download a Folder Lock app on your iPhone, Android or Windows phone that will allow you to access files from your phone as well, with features that vary depending upon your phone type. Folder Lock Lite costs about $24.95 and for $15 more, you can purchase purchase the full version.
Also, be on the lookout for discount codes which are usually easy to find on the main Folder Lock website.
Another option is StorageCrypt, a program that allows you to password protect second hard drives as well as removable drives. The program utilizes 128 bit AES encryption to secure your files and promises not to store your password in order to further protect against any violations of privacy. StorageCrypt, while not as high-tech as Folder Lock, comes in at a much more affordable $29.95 for the complete, full-version.
Some editions of Windows come with their own encryption utility, if you have Ultimate or Enterprise versions of any Windows released since Vista came out, you probably have a tool called BitLocker already and for free. BitLocker can encrypt your internal drives, but it also offers an option called “BitLocker To Go” to protect your removable drives.
If you’re running one of the more basic version of Windows, it may not work for you, but If you have access to the right Windows edition, you might as well take advantage of the free encryption that’s already built in, especially since all you may need to do is right click and click Turn on BitLocker.