Encrypt Your Storage Device(s) Using a Windows Computer

Special Notes

• Depending on the size of the storage device, it may take some time for it to be encrypted
• You may continue to use your computer which the encryption takes place
• If you are not an administrator of your machine, you will need to contact the Help Desk to enter the administrator credentials 

Directions

1. Open File Explorer and click 'This PC'
2. Under 'Devices and drives' right-click on the storage device you would like to encrypt and select 'Turn on BitLocker'
3. Select 'Use a password to unlock the drive' and enter a secure password
4. You will be asked to select how you want to back up your recovery key. Select the desired option
   1. If you lose your recovery key, you can contact the Help Desk for assistance with retrieving it
5. Select 'Encrypt entire drive'
6. Select 'New encryption mode'
7. Click 'Start encrypting'