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If you’re looking for an easy way to carry or back up your digital data, a USB flash drive may offer you a cheap solution. Also known as thumb drives, flash drives are small, portable data storage devices that you can slip into your pocket.
Convenient? Yes. But what if the personal data stored on your flash drive is exposed? While this external portable device is compact and easy to carry, it’s also easy to lose or have stolen for those same reasons.
Dec 17, 2019 Here we brings you Best USB encryption software windows/ mac 2020 to encrypt a USB Flash drive. Also check – best bootable usb maker software / best windows password recovery software. VeraCrypt portable Windows. This software is best USB encryption software window 2020 and now this software is updates and improved version of truecrypt. There are numerous advanced tips that can be used to make sure that the user gets the best results when it comes to USB usage on a Mac. This tutorial will discuss the top 7 tips for using flash drive. It will also provide a basic level of training to make the overall use of flash drive easier to Mac users. 1 Connecting Flash Drive to MAC. Nov 18, 2017 1. Use Disk Utility to Format USB Flash Drive on Mac. The simplest way to format a disk in Mac OS is to simply use the Disk Utility since it is the Mac’s built in disk maintenance tool. To format USB drive on Mac using this method, all you need to do is plug in the USB device into your Mac and select it from the Disk Utility’s sidebar menu. Aug 16, 2008 Mac owners with more than a touch of paranoia should head straight for the website of Moldovan security firm Rohos with any old USB flash drive at the ready.
That’s where encryption comes in.
Why encrypt your flash drive?
If you’re going to use a flash drive, encryption is one of the best ways to protect your data.
Encryption can help protect the sensitive data on an external drive should it fall into the wrong hands through loss or theft, but there are other reasons for encryption, too. For instance, non-encrypted flash drives can leave you vulnerable to malware and other device security threats.
But what does it really mean to encrypt your data and how does it work? Encryption means only those with an encryption key file or password will be able to access the data on an encrypted flash drive.
So even if your flash drive falls into the wrong hands, those unintended third parties won’t be able to access or understand the information the drive is holding and therefore would be unable to use it for nefarious purposes.
Encryption, flash drives, and filesystems
An important factor in the encryption process for your flash drive is your filesystem. Your filesystem organizes your drive by dictating how and how much data is stored, and what type of data can be attached to files.
Apple supports three file systems: Apple File System (APFS), Hierarchical File System (HFS) Plus, and extended File Allocation Table (exFAT). Windows also supports exFAT, along with NT File System (NTFS) and File Allocation Table (FAT32).
Different filesystem types will impact your encryption options in different ways. Here are the differences.
Apple File System (APFS)
The APFS is the default used in the newer Mac operating system, also known as macOS 10.13 High Sierra — and is optimized for flash drives.
Hierarchical File System (HFS) Plus
The HFS+ filesystem, also known as Mac OS Extended, is used by Apple to encrypt removable media on older versions of macOS.
NT File System (NTFS)
NTFS is the most modern file system that Windows uses by default for its system drive and non-removable drives. NTFS is the ideal filesystem for internal drives.
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File Allocation Table (FAT32)
FAT32 is older and less efficient than NTFS. However, it is more compatible with other operating systems and can be used to support an external drive — if exFAT isn’t supported on your device and you don’t have files larger than 4 GB.
ExFAT
ExFAT is the modern replacement for FAT32 and is a great cross-platform option, supported by more devices and operating systems in its compatibility with both Windows and macOS. This file system is optimal for flash drives in its lightweight design like FAT32, but without that filesystem’s limitations or the extra features of NTFS. Similar to NTFS, exFAT gives you more storage than FAT32’s 4GB limit.
Encrypting a flash drive on a Mac computer
Encrypting your flash drive is different on a Mac because Apple uses the APFS or HFS+ filesystems to encrypt removable media, so you’ll need to format your drive accordingly. Here’s how.
Step 1: Erase drive (but consider consulting an expert first)
To format your external flash drive with the HFS+ filesystem, for example, start by opening the disk utility app. Then select your USB drive and choose Erase. Keep in mind that you could erase any data that’s already on the external or flash drive. You may want to consult a professional for advice.
Step 2: Format filesystem
After choosing the MacOS extended format and erasing the drive, format it with the HFS+ filesystem.
Step 3: Encrypt drive
To encrypt your drive, right-click your USB drive in your Finder and select Encrypt.
Usb Flash Drive Security Software
Step 4: Set password
Enter a strong password to keep others from gaining access.
Encrypting a flash drive on a Windows computer
Windows uses built-in encryption software known as BitLocker drive encryption, which is built into Windows Vista, including Pro, Ultimate, Enterprise, and Windows 10. While Bitlocker can encrypt your operating system drive and fixed data drives on your computer, Bitlocker to Go can encrypt your external USB flash drive and external hard drives. Windows also gives you a choice between three filesystems, as mentioned above.
Step 1: Choose filesystem
To start, choose which filesystem you want to use — NFTS, exFAT or FAT32 — by right-clicking your drive and choosing Format.
Step 2: Encrypt drive
To encrypt your flash or external drive, select the drive in your file explorer, hit your Manage tab, Select BitLocker, and turn BitLocker on.
Step 3: Set password
You’ll then choose how you want to unlock the drive — with a smart card, password, or both. If you choose to set a password, create a strong password and enter it twice.
Step 4: Save recovery key
You’ll then need to choose how you want to save your recovery key, in case you forget your password.
Encryption software options
Some flash drives offer built-in encryption, so you won’t have to use encryption software or a third-party app. If your drive doesn’t already provide encryption, you’ll need to decide which software is right for you.
Your decision will depend on factors that include your operating system, ease of use, level of encryption, safety features, speed, file size, and cost. Below is a listing of several encryption tools you may want to consider for your removable media.
Gilisoft USB encryption*
Gilisoft USB encryption software uses the AES-256 encryption algorithm, and runs automatically once your USB is detected. Other than choosing the size of your encrypted partition, everything else is automated. In various online reviews, possible drawbacks have includeed the cost, which runs about $50, and your computer — the app only works with a Windows platform.
USB Safeguard*
The USB Safeguard encryption software also uses AES-256 encryption for files, folders and drives. The highlights of USB Safeguard are just what its name implies: its safety features. The app lets you create virtual containers to keep your data safe, and also automatically locks when unplugged or when a user is inactive for a certain time. The potential drawbacks noted in online reviews? USB Safeguard only supports Windows and encryption of files up to 2GB. After that, it’s around $23 per license.
Kruptos 2 Go-USB Vault*
While there are several encryption software options for Windows, there aren’t as many for macOS. Kruptos 2 uses the stronger AES-256 encryption and notes that it can be used across platforms for Windows, macOS, and Android. While the process for encryption is relatively easy and the cost is around $24.95, the drawbacks are that you can’t encrypt an entire partition or system drive like you can with others, and the encryption process is reported to be slower than free tools like VeraCrypt.
How to encrypt a flash drive for free
There are several free options for encrypting the data on your flash drive through third-party tools. The differences in their efficacy seem to hinge on differences in their platforms, functions, and algorithms.
VeraCrypt*
VeraCrypt is another free third-party data encryption tools. It’s based on earlier software known as TrueCrypt and can function cross-platform. This encryption software can be used with Windows, OS X, and Linus. The product is able to hide encrypted volumes within other volumes through AES, TwoFish, and Serpent encryption.
AxCrypt*
AxCrypt software requires an annual fee for Mac and mobile applications, but it’s a free, open source encryption tool for Windows. This software allows you to encrypt either a file or an entire folder. AxCrypt can use timed encryption, letting you schedule the encryption and decryption of specific files or folders for a certain amount of time according to your needs and uses.
One difference? AxCrypt can’t create encrypted volumes the way VeraCrypt can. Also, the free version supports the AES-128 algorithm, which isn’t as strong as AES-256 encryption.
DiskCryptor*
This tool is another free, open source program that supports drive and volume encryption for Windows. DiskCryptor supports complex system configurations and lets you choose between the algorithms AES-256, Serpent, and Twofish.
GNU Privacy Guard*
This open source encryption software supports several types of encryption and can be used with Windows, OS X, and Linus. This tool is useful in its ability to encrypt individual files, disk images, volumes, external drives, and connected media.
7-Zip*
7-Zip is free file archive software for Windows, OS X and Linus. This encryption tool supports 256-bit AES encryption. It’s easy-to-use in its ability to use an encryption key to encrypt multiple files with one click.
Cyber threats have evolved, and so have we.
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There are many encryption options available. The main takeaway? Your platform, the size of your files, your level of expertise, and your willingness to pay are a few of the factors to consider in deciding how to encrypt your data.
But there’s one constant. If you have sensitive data on your flash drive, encryption — whether it’s applied to all or only part of the drive — is important in keeping your sensitive information safe and secure.
Editorial note: Our articles provide educational information for you. NortonLifeLock offerings may not cover or protect against every type of crime, fraud, or threat we write about. Our goal is to increase awareness about cyber safety. Please review complete Terms during enrollment or setup. Remember that no one can prevent all identity theft or cybercrime, and that LifeLock does not monitor all transactions at all businesses.
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The days of floppy disks are long past, and while CD-Roms are still around very few people use them for anything besides the occasional mixtape or digital photo album.
As we race ahead into the era of cloud storage, it’s worth keeping an eye on our friend — the USB Flash Drive, which has by no means expired.
Flash drives are reliable even when the Internet is down, files are too large to upload, or when you can’t remember your password. Plus, they’re easily shared among other people and can be used to distribute large amounts of information as well or store the final version of a project for later reference.
So whether you want a place to keep your digital movie collections, the latest year’s worth of schoolwork, or all the material for a particular client, a thumb drive is a versatile and inexpensive solution to your problem.
In this buying guide, we’ll help you choose the best flash drive that works with your MacBook Pro. In addition, you’ll learn tips and tricks on how to keep the drive in good shape.
Quick Summary
- Want to be on the cutting edge of the future and enjoy using USB Type-C? Luckily SanDisk offers 256GB Ultra Dual USB-C Drive, which contains plenty of storage while allowing you to use a newer MacBook without dongles.
- If you’re looking for as much space as you can get at a great value and reliability, the PNY Turbo 256GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive will have you covered with a sleek design and an expansive 256 GB of storage.
- Just need something that will last a while and have enough space for your old photos and videos? The Samsung BAR Plus 64GB is durable and the 32 GB of space includes a keychain attachment so you can’t lose the drive anytime soon.
Who Should Get This?
USBs are almost completely universal devices, so you don’t have to worry about which ones will or won’t work with your computer unless you have the newest MacBook Pro, which has no USB-A slots at all! In that case, you’ll need a USB-C dock or adapter in order to use most flash drives, or you can purchase a specialty USB-C model.
Beyond that, almost everyone can benefit from having a USB drive on hand. They work on both Macs and PCs without reformatting so file transfer and backup are very easy. You can keep any type of file on them, and you’ll doubtless need one soon in the future to save something large or pass a file to a friend.
However, for those who’ve been used to live “in the cloud” (aka, using cloud storage or services for all kind of files), you probably won’t need a physical disk drive at all.
Buying a Flash Drive for Mac: What to Consider in 2020?
Capacity
When you’re storing files, space is everything. Especially since thumb drives aren’t expandable, you’ll want to pick one big enough to encompass your needs for quite a while. Alternatively, if you like to keep each project separate, buy many small flash drives so you don’t have an excess of space that you don’t end up utilizing.
Type
These days, USBs are coming in more and more varieties. The classic USB-A actually has two variations- 2.0 and 3.0, and you’ll want to get a 3.0 model whenever possible since at this point 2.0 is fairly outdated though widely available. You can also step it up a notch by going for USB-C, which has the new reversible design and doesn’t look anything like you would expect. It’ll be faster and more efficient, but only newer computers have the correct port to use it.
Size
Do you lose things easily if they’re too small, or would you prefer something that fits in your wallet? USB drives can be as small as one joint of your finger or include keyrings or other attachments that make them easier to keep track of. The size is also relevant when inserting it into your computer — if your USB ports are close together, especially if you already use them regularly, a small flash drive will make sure the other accessories don’t get pushed out in the process.
The Best USB Flash Drive for MacBook: Our Picks in 2020
Kindly note that all the products recommended below are chosen based on the criteria above (plus our own personal preferences). They are, however, by no means ranked in this order.
1. SanDisk 256GB Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C
Hate dongles and adapters but using the newest MacBook Pro with only Type-C ports available? This flash drive from SanDisk has you covered. The progressive design is made for the future and using USB-C, so you can copy, read, and store files even faster than USB-A 3.0 without ever needed a middleman for your laptop.
Pros:
- Available from a range of 16GB all the way up to 256 GB, this USB-C drive is ready to work with your modern Mac.
- The Type-C connection is cutting edge and allows faster file transfer than legacy models.
Cons:
- Not all old Macs have USB-C ports, so you may be able to use the drive with your main MacBook but not with the computers of peers or your own other models.
2. PNY Turbo 256GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive
Need space in epic proportions? PNY offers a 256GB flash drive that will have you covered for quite a while. With a sleek sliding design and transfer speeds 10 times faster than with USB 2.0, you’ll be able to utilize that space quickly and efficiently. PNY has a great electronics reputation isn’t expected to fail anytime soon.
Pros:
- Sliding cover is attached and cannot be lost, securely covering the electronics from the elements.
- Reading and writing speeds are much faster than on a USB 2.0 model, and the drive has enough space to store thousands of songs or most any other file type.
Cons:
- Does not include an activity indicator light.
3. Samsung BAR Plus 200MB/s USB 3.1 Flash Drive Titan Gray
Usb Flash Drive Security Software
For an all-around winner, the Samsung BAR Plus drive hits all the important points. It’s extremely damage resistant, easily attaches to a keychain so you can keep track of it, and the slim design leaves plenty of space for peripherals in other ports of your MacBook. The 64 GB size is more than sufficient for a casual user.
Pros:
- Slim design is durable — waterproof, shock-proof, and magnet proof- your data will be safe no matter what.
- The built-in key ring makes it hard to lose, and the 64 GB of space gives you plenty of options when it comes to what data you want to store- from movies to Word documents.
Cons:
- None, this drive does everything right (unless you only have type-C ports, but in that case, any USB-A device is going to be a struggle to use).
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Useful Tips
A USB flash drive is more than a place to store files. There are tons of fun things you can do with it, as demonstrated in this article from Gizmodo that shows you 10 cool ways to use a flash drive such as speeding up your computer, applying for a job or making new connections, etc. Nevertheless, Apple also curated a list of commonly asked questions about connecting USB devices to a Mac.
If you’re out of luck when it comes to USB-A ports, Apple has you covered with their USB-C to USB-A dongle (see on Amazon). This means you’ll be able to use any standard flash drives you have because the new USB-C port on your computer will be converted to the legacy version for a perfect fit.
Final Words
You can’t go wrong with a flash drive. From backing up your important files to storing extra video games, they’re extremely versatile and reliable. Flash drives can be used for years, and you’re never really done with one unless it becomes corrupted or lost.
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What do you use your flash drives for the most? Leave a comment and let us know!