However, the primary drawback is the cost. Even if you lose the drive, a potential thief cannot access the contents if they don't have your password. Every time you plug it into your computer, you will need to use the companion software and enter your password to access the data. Once you unplug the drive, the encryption chip automatically scrambles and encrypts your data and files. Afterward, you can insert and remove files as you would with any other drive. When plugging an encrypted USB drive into your computer for the first time, you will usually need to open the companion software, through which you'll set a password. Most encrypted drives are typically paired with companion software from the same manufacturer. That objective is the primary purpose of an encrypted USB drive.Įncrypted USB drives employ a form of hardware encryption, meaning that the drive features a chip dedicated explicitly to data encryption.

Theoretically, the best way to ensure the data on your drive remains secure is to take measures to prevent any unauthorized person from accessing it, even if the drive falls into the wrong hands. If you're looking for the best ways to safeguard your USB drives and protect the data they carry, here are four solutions and best practices to consider.

The average USB drive usually lacks security features, making data storage and transportation risky. However, the widespread adoption of USB drives has also resulted in the rise of new security risks. Over two decades later, USB drives are now ubiquitous, and the technologies they use have significantly evolved: higher capacities, smaller physical sizes, compatibility with USB-C and more. The first USB flash drives appeared on the market in 2000, shortly after the release of the USB 2.0 standard.

Best encrypted thumb drive