Why do we want to know about data encryption? The answer is simple to protect your data. One tool commonly used in the PII tools is the “Endpoint protector”. Endpoint Protector is a data prevention PII, including a USB encryption system to secure the data transfer.
In the Best USB encryption software tool post, you will learn about the tools overview and their features. Are you more excited? Then let’s get started;
Here’s a quick overview of our top picks for the best USB Encryption tools:
- VeraCrypt – EDITOR’S CHOICE This widely-used system creates a virtual disk, encrypting all contents in a file but making all contents appear to be organized in a normal directory structure. Free to use and available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, and Raspberry Pi.
- AxCrypt Can be used as a simple program to encrypt program files and folders on the USB drive.
- EncryptStick A type of encryption system that allows users to encrypt USB drives and also helps to create virtual folders or files protected with a password.
- Rohos Disk Encryption Packs good features, and the core functionalities of this encryption system are the creation of encrypted volumes.
- Gilisoft USB Stick Encryption Pretty and funky user interface features, a very easy-to-use encryption system.
- DriveCrypt A one-stop solution that guarantees the security of the files. It comes in the form of a handy when you want to encrypt folders or USB drives.
- KakaSoft USB Security A run-of-the-mill type of software that offers minimal features, however, it is a fully self-contained software on the USB flash drives, so it’s straightforward to carry and can be used anywhere.
- Bitlocker A robust and compliant security software that supports Windows operations and is a highly lightweight handy encryption software, easy to carry and use from anywhere.
A Quick Introduction to USB Encryption Software
USB is a flash drive encryption device that ensures your private data is protected as well as secured. Encryption is a method that restricts data access either by software or hardware installed on the hard drive with key locked.
There are two types of USB encryptions available they are:
- Symmetric encryption
- Asymmetric encryption
The most common applications that make use of USB encryption are:
- Wireless security
- Processor security and File encryption
- Wi-Fi security
- Mobile application encryption
- Virtual private network
Why do We Need a USB Encryption Security System?
The following are the reasons why we need a USB encryption security system:
- USB encryption system helps to protect sensitive data on external devices
- USB encryption security system restricts the data flow
- This security system also controls by encrypting valuable data
- The locking system is a useful feature that protects and secures the data
- These encryption devices also provide services like protecting the data from any cyber-attacks or malware attacks, keeping the data safe from data thieves, and securing hardware and software devices and hard drives from any virus attacks
Advantages of USB Encryption Security System
Below are a few benefits of a USB encryption security system:
- USB encryption security system offers improved access to all types of media
- Hardware-encrypted USB drives help users in compliance
- Hardware encryption and password protection are always on
- Zero risk of user mistakes only securely allows storage
- USB encryption security system protest against brute force attacks
- USB malware protection is available, ransomware, and malware over USB are prevalent
- Any lost secure USB drives with sensitive data do not need to be reported and do not expose an organization to GDPR fines
- File encryption and Rohos disk encryption
- Password protection is also an advantage of using a USB encryption security system
The Best USB Encryption Software Tools
Our methodology for selecting the Best USB Encryption Software Tools
We've broken down our analysis for you based on these key criteria:
- We prioritize software with robust encryption algorithms for maximum data security on USB drives
- The user interface and ease of operation are crucial for user-friendliness
- Compatibility with a wide range of operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, and Raspberry Pi
- Additional features like password protection, virtual folders, or encrypted volumes are considered valuable
- Preference for software that is lightweight, portable, and easy to use on different systems without complex installation
Here we have listed the most popular USB encryption software tools used to protect the data on USB drives.
1. VeraCrypt
VeraCrypt is a famous and rich USB encryption tool. The main focus is to encrypt the hard disks. VeraCrpyt works well with USB flash drives, and it is one of the best Encryption software available on the market. This type of tool creates password-protected disk volumes, and later on, they will be encrypted using industry-standard encrypted algorithms. The algorithms used are Twofish, Serpents, and AES.
Key Features:
- VeraCrypt is a free disk encryption software
- It is developed based on TrueCrypt
- It is a software system for establishing and maintaining an on-the-fly-encrypted volume (data storage device)
- It encrypts or decrypts the data as soon as it loads without user interventions
- The entire file system is encrypted (file names, folder names, file content, metadata, accessible space, etc.)
Unique Feature
A highlight of this tool is its versatility. You can use Veracrypt for encrypting different assets spread across multiple business functions.
Why do we recommend it?
This open-source disk encryption tool works well on Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it ideal for today's multiOS environment. Also, its encryption can be accelerated through hardware.
Who is it recommended for?
Ideal for organizations that are looking to have logical and virtual partitions and want to use algorithms to safeguard these partitions.
Pros:
- VeraCrypt is free and open-source software
- No data stored on an encrypted volume can be read without using the correct password or correct encryption keys
- The entire file system is encrypted
- A secure way to backup important files
- This encrypt software offers encryption service to all the operating systems (Windows, IOS, Linux, and Unix)
- Standard encrypted volumes and hidden volumes supported
Cons:
- Many steps to follow
- Writing/reading to or from volume could be prolonged when the VeraCrypt container has a file extension reserved for executable files
- Windows and Antivirus software may interfere with the container and adversely affect the performance of the volume
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Veracrypt is our top pick for a USB encryption system because it is free to use and can be installed on a long list of operating systems. This tool can be used to compress and encrypt hard drives on computers as well as USB drive contents. The service gives you a choice of encryption ciphers, then encrypts an entire drive, copying it into a hidden file. Access the USB without the password and you see nothing. Entering credentials unlocks the system and you are presented with folders and files as though they were physically on the drive, although this is a virtual presentation.
Download: Download for free
Official Site: https://veracrypt.fr
OS: Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, and Raspberry Pi
2. AxCrypt
We know that the VeraCrpyt encryption system helps encrypt volumes and external drives. Whereas AxCrypt can be used as a simple program to encrypt program files and folders on the USB drive. More precisely the AxCrypt is the best option to encrypt software programming folders and can be widely used by everyone.
Key Features:
- A lightweight and small download is required
- Comes with a more straightforward user interface with Windows Explorer integration
- Fast download and upload
- Offers intelligent optional compression
- Supports Windows Vista 2008/ 7/8/10 32 and 64-bit compatible
- Supports OS x 10.8 Mountain Lion or later
- Supports mobile apps including Android 4.0.3 or later IOS version 8.0 or later
Why do we recommend it?
AxCrypt uses AES-256-bit encryption, making it hard to crack. Also, you don't need an Internet connection to use this tool.
Who is it recommended for?
A good choice for individuals and organizations that want to protect their business and personal data.
Pros:
- The AxCrypt offers standard-based cryptography It only uses well-researched cryptographic algorithms and modes of operations
- Provides data integration verification The secured files cannot be modified without detection
- Automatic file updating Offers automatic of the secured file after opening and saving
- Local device security Shredding of all temporary and encrypted plain text files
- Large file support Supports files larger than 4GB
- Metadata retention Retains the original file name and the information of the secured file
- Brute force resistant Dynamic brute force counter measure-> iterative password wrapping making attacks even harder
- Open-source Under GNU general public license
Cons:
- Need to update the relevant settings to avoid any risks occurring
- AxCrypt uses a few good encryption algorithms; there might be chances of putting some fields at risk
3. EncryptStick
The EncryptStick is a type of encryption system that allows users to encrypt USB drives and also helps to create virtual folders or files protected with a password. The EncryptStick offers one of the most robust encryption mechanisms to encrypt flash USB drives on various operating systems such as Windows, MAC, Linux, etc.
Key Features:
- Encrypt applications Helps hide and protect applications like Skype, Google Chrome, and folders
- Create backups Backup encrypted disk manually or set up automated backup options
- Encrypt USB drives Create a protected partition on your USB flash drive
- Options Setup disk autostart, disconnect hotkeys, and other options
- Set up authentication keys
Why do we recommend it?
It can encrypt not just your sensitive files but also your USB flash drive, desktop vaults, and all your passwords. With such a tool, the chances of data theft and loss are minimal.
Who is it recommended for?
Works well for both individuals and small organizations that want to encrypt their sensitive content.
Pros:
- Encrypt stick can quickly, easily, and permanently secure your important information and protect your privacy
- Helps to keep your files safe
- Synchronizes the files across the devices
- Back up your data quickly, easily, and more securely
- Keep your private file safe
Cons:
- If you lose the key, there might be a chance of losing the large files or folders
- It takes a lot of time when encrypting the larger files
4. Rohos Disk Encryption
The Rohos Disk Encryption system packs good features, and the core functionalities of this encryption system are the creation of encrypted volumes. The Rohos Disk encryption is straightforward to customize the encrypted volume size and parameters like file locations and mount point letters.
Key Features:
- Hide folder Hide and encrypt a particular folder from PC into Rohos disk
- Change password Specify a new password across Rohos disk
- Encrypt USB drive Create the protected partition on your USB flash drive
- Options Set up disk auto start, disconnect hotkeys and other disks
Why do we recommend it?
Rohos Disk Encryption is portable and can hide the contents of your USB drive behind an advanced encryption algorithm. Also, the encryption is on-the-fly, which means, there's no residual data in the temp files.
Who is it recommended for?
Works best in situations where you want to password-protect a part of your USB drive or portable HDD.
Pros:
- It helps to keep the data safe
- Sometimes prevents breaches with the File detection encryption methods (FDE)
- Keeps the user password safe
- Offers full-disk encryption
Cons:
- Steganography is not possible with Rohos mini
- Sometimes file shredders erase the content of the files
- It’s impossible to set up the hardware security key for disk access without entering a password
5. Gilisoft USB Stick Encryption
The Gilisoft USB Stick Encryption offers pretty and funky user interface features. However, it’s a very easy-to-use encryption system. All you need to do is just plug in the flash drive, and it detects automatically. Most importantly, you need to specify the disk area where you want to create the file on the drive and the encrypted password.
Key Features:
- Maximum folder security
- File lock system
- A folder guard feature is also available
- A proposed system USB encryption
Why do we recommend it?
Protects data across a wide range of portable storage devices in your Windows system. Moreover, it uses AES encryption algorithms for improved protection.
Who is it recommended for?
Ideal for personal, government, and business use to avoid data thefts through USB drives.
Pros:
- Able to lock or hide files and folders with personal passwords
- AES encryption and hiding private files
- Operates well with the Windows platforms
- Provides detection signs using Alarms and email notifications
Cons:
- Installation required
- Not portable
- Sometimes it takes more time to unlock the files or folders
6. DriveCrypt
The DriveCrypt is a one-stop solution that guarantees the security of the files. DriveCrypt comes in the form of a handy when you want to encrypt folders or USB drives. It is also possible to encrypt selected files with DriveCrypt. This software also features a password sniffing facility that prevents Trojan files or hackers from trying to access the DriveCrypt passwords.
Key Features:
- 1344 bit military strength encryption feature
- It is entirely transparent
- Unprotected data never resides on the DriveCrypt encrypted hard drive
- Master password settings
- Restricted second-user password
- Console lock-out password
- Hides data in fake disks or music files
Why do we recommend it?
This security tool is easy to use and at the same time, it can protect the proprietary data on your laptops and desktops. It also gives the option to encrypt an entire hard disk partition if needed.
Who is it recommended for?
Works well for remote employees and those who are always on the move. Most suited for individuals over large organizations.
Pros:
- Strong cryptography
- Easy to install, deploy, and use: installation requires minimal administration and training experience
- Maximize your security and minimize the risk: DriveCrypt protects your data quickly and has a true “on the fly” disk encryption process
- Disk partition and file volume encryption: DriveCrypt allows both the encryption of an entire hard disk partition as well as a creation of a virtual container file that will store all the encrypted information
- Invisible container: the password of the invisible disk gives you access to your working disk
- Hide data into music files: using an exceptional functionality known as “steganography”, the DriveCrypt allows you to hide all your sensitive information in the music files. Only authorized users will be able to access secret information
- Improved password security
- Password sniffing protection: DriveCrypt integrates special functions that prevent passwords from being sniffed by hackers or trojan horses etc
- No-evidence encryption
- Anti-dictionary and brute force attack mechanism
Cons:
- It requires larger storage files to perform a few encryption operations
- Time consumption is less as it requires more time in the installation process
7. KakaSoft USB Security
KakaSoft USB security is a run-of-the-mill type of software that offers minimal features. However, this USB security is fully self-contained software on the USB flash drives, so it’s straightforward to carry and can be used anywhere. The Kakasoft USB security utility installs itself on the USB drive and runs automatically whenever you plug it into the drive.
Key Features:
- Folder lock
- Lock my drive-free locker: secure and protect your files
- Offers file encryption and decryption: it will encrypt your files using AES-256 encryption algorithms
- Steganography: a free security program for windows
- M3 BitLocker description free
Why do we recommend it?
Protects the data on different portable devices like USB flash drives, memory sticks, HDD hard drives, and more. Also, it uses the AES-256 algorithm for the highest safety.
Who is it recommended for?
A good choice for small and medium organizations whose employees are likely to use USB sticks to transfer information. Even for organizations that don't use USB sticks for data transfer, this tool can help prevent insider threats.
Pros:
- Password protection: password protect USB and all portable devices, including USB flash drives, memory sticks, cards, thumb drives, and external drives
- Reliable: Multiple layers of protection and advanced encryption techniques ensure complete data security on USB drives
- Ease of use: no installation required—user-friendly security software
Cons:
- While running your programs on USB drives, there might be fewer chances of getting bugs or errors
- The support is prolonged
- Need to get a subscription to make use of full features
8. BitLocker
If you don’t want to use third-party software, then this is the perfect software to go with it. The Bitlocker to go is a robust and compliant security software. This software configuration supports Windows operations and is a highly lightweight handy encryption software, easy to carry and use from anywhere. Users can configure this software in a mere second by using the Bitlocker Drive encryption applet on the control panel.
Key Features:
- Pre-provisioning
- Encrypting hard drives
- Used space-only encryption allows administrators to enable Bitlocker on new computers
- SSO support is also possible
Why do we recommend it?
Bitlocker is a Windows utility that encrypts all user and system files to prevent unauthorized access to lost and stolen computers. It can also check the integrity of boot configuration data to reduce the chances of a device takeover.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is well-suited for organizations that have to comply with stringent guidelines like HIPAA. This includes companies in healthcare, law enforcement, banks, law and accounting firms, and other financial services.
Pros:
- In addition, modern Windows devices are increasingly protected with Bitlocker Device encryption
- Supports SSO to protect the encryption keys seamlessly
- Bitlocker supports encrypted hard drives with onboard encryption hardware built-in, which allows the administrator uses the familiar BitLocker administrative tools to manage them
- Bitlocker allows users to encrypt removable data drives in seconds
Cons:
- First, there is no support for using BitLocker with self-encrypting devices
- Encrypting a new flash drive can take more than 20 mins
- Second, BitLocker could require a user to enter a recovery key when system configuration changes occur
- Finally, users need to enter a PIN to start the PC and sign in to Windows
Final Thoughts
Why do we need a USB security system? Here is the answer; If you use sensitive data, then the encryption method must securely transfer large files through USB drives. One more benefit of using a USB security system is that it will add a complex layer of security that can’t be brute-forced by anyone. This Best USB security tool post explains the top security tools available, their features, advantages, and drawbacks. If you are looking for a free USB device, go for the VeraCrypt device; it’s free, open-source, and encrypts external volumes on USB drives. We hope this post might help a few security, and networking engineers, large security communities, and experts around the globe.
USB Encryption Software FAQs
How do I encrypt a USB stick?
In order to encrypt your USB stick, you need to install an encryption system. You can download such a service onto your computer and then encrypt multiple USB sticks. These systems usually block access to the contents of the memory stick to all but those with access credentials.
What type of encryption is used for USB?
There are many encryption ciphers that can be used to encrypt a USB memory stick. The strongest cipher available is the Advanced Encryption Standard with a 256-bit key. You will see this written as AES-256.