How to Password Protect a USB Port in Windows XP

Protect your USB ports in Windows XP with a password.

Keep your data on a USB drive safe from prying eyes by locking that USB port with a password. Windows XP includes a feature known as BitLocker which enables you to protect not just files but entire drives with a password, making it for difficult for thieves who might steal your computer to access the information stored on it. Data stored on the protected drive becomes encrypted, which locks it away from those without a password.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP
• USB drive

Instructions

1. Go to the Start menu and select "Control Panel".

2. Click on "Security" to open that folder.

3. Look for the icon marked "BitLocker" and double click on it.

4. Choose the option "Turn BitLocker On" to initiate the setup wizard.

5. Follow the prompts in the wizard to to select the USB port you wish to protect and create a password.

References

• Microsoft: Help Protect Your Files Using BirLocker Data Encryption