How to Password Protect a Thumb Drive in Windows 10

Protecting sensitive data stored on a thumb drive is crucial in this digital age. In Windows 10, you can easily password-protect your thumb drive to ensure that only authorized individuals can access its content. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you secure your data:

1. Insert Your Thumb Drive: Plug your thumb drive into a USB port on your Windows 10 computer.
2. Open BitLocker: Right-click on your thumb drive in File Explorer and select 'Turn on BitLocker'.
3. Choose a Password: Select 'Use a password to unlock the drive' and enter a strong password. Click 'Next'.
4. Backup Your Recovery Key: Store your recovery key in a safe place. This key will help you access your drive if you forget your password.
5. Encrypt the Drive: Choose between 'Encrypt used disk space only' or 'Encrypt entire drive'. Click 'Next'.
6. Start Encrypting: Click 'Start Encrypting' to begin the encryption process. This might take a while depending on the size of your drive.
7. Access Your Protected Drive: Once the encryption is complete, you'll need to enter your password every time you plug in the thumb drive.

By following these steps, you can safeguard your sensitive data from unauthorized access. Remember to keep your password secure and avoid sharing it with anyone.