When an unencrypted USB removable media is inserted into a university-managed Windows PC, the BitLocker software will detect the unencrypted media, and a prompt will display to require encryption. If the media is not encrypted, all data will be read-only.

  • To encrypt the device, select “Encrypt this drive using BitLocker Drive Encryption.

  • Choose how you want to unlock this drive 

    • Select “Use a password to unlock the drive.”

      • Encryption requires that passwords have at least eight characters. Recommendation that they contain a mixture of characters, numbers, and special characters.

This option prompts the user for a password to unlock the drive. Passwords allow a drive to be unlocked in any location and to be shared with other people.

  • How Do You Want To Store Your Recovery Key Windows? 

    • Click Print The Recovery Key To A File.

      • Cannot be saved to the MEDIA you are encrypting.

    • Choose Microsoft Print to PDF or a printer of your choice.

  • Are You Ready To Encrypt This Drive?

    • Click Start Encrypting.

Do not remove the USB media until the encryption process is complete.

  • Once the encryption process is complete, you will be notified.


The USB media is now encrypted and you can save files on it. If you have any issues, please contact ithelp.stjohns.edu or 718-990-5000.