Encrypting an external hard drive

If you are going to store WSU data on external storage media you should encrypt the media to ensure no one can get at the data without a password.

The state of Minnesota data encryption standard requires the controlling agency to be able to decrypt what we support.

PC Operating Systems

1. Go to the Control Panel
2. Systems and Security
3. Bitlocker Drive Encryption
4. Connect your external storage device and choose this from the list of Removable data devices listed.
5. You will be prompted to enter a password
6. You will be prompted to save the password key to a file that you can either print or save to a location.
7. Under Removable Data Drives select Turn on BitLocker

It is very important that you remember your password. We recommend that you save your passwords in a password management program like KeePass. Do not just put the password on the drive.

Mac Operating Systems

1. Connect the external drive to your Mac.
2. Right-click on the external drive name in the Finder.
3. Choose Encrypt DiskName
4. Set and confirm a password, then set a reasonable password hint, followed by clicking the “Encrypt” button – do not forget this or you will lose access to the data!
5. Wait while the encryption takes place.