Encrypt a USB Device

As of Monday, September 25^th, 2023, USB storage will no longer be permitted on WVU-owned computers. Any users that have a business need can request an exception. If an exception is granted, you will be permitted to use only encrypted storage devices.

If your device is already encrypted you won’t need to make any changes. If you’re currently using an unencrypted storage device, follow these steps to ensure your device is compliant and can be used on WVU-owned computers:

1. Upon plugging an unencrypted store device into a WVU-owned computer, you will be prompted to encrypt it. Select Encrypt this drive using BitLocker Drive Encryption.

2. Check the box for Use password to unlock the drive. Create a password that will allow you to access the drive. Re-enter the password to confirm. Click Next.

3. Save your recovery key. The recovery key can be used to access the drive if you forget the password. We recommend that you save the recovery key as a PDF on your OneDrive. To do this:

   1. Click Print recovery key. The printing menu will open.

   2. Select Microsoft Print to PDF from the Printer dropdown menu.

   3. File Explorer will open. Name your file and select to save the file in your OneDrive. File Explorer will close after saving.

4. Click Next.

5. Select Encrypt used disk space only then select Next.

6. Select Compatible mode and then select Next.

7. Select Start encrypting to confirm you’re ready to start drive encryption. Once you start the encryption process the disk will be read-only until the encryption process is complete.