As part of our ongoing commitment to data and cyber security and safety, any storage device connected to a G8 device will need to be encrypted with a password to allow files to be saved, modified or deleted.


Once encrypted, the files on that storage device can only be accessed by entering the password that was used to encrypt it. Data already on the device can still be accessed without encryption, however, it will be read-only until encryption is enabled.


Before you begin

To ensure a smooth encryption process:

  • Keep your laptop plugged in to a power source.
  • Do not unplug the USB drive until encryption is complete.
  • Avoid restarting or shutting down your computer during encryption.
  • Save the recovery key to an online storage location, such as SharePoint or OneDrive. Do not print it physically.


Important: Service Desk cannot recover or unlock a drive if both the password and recovery key are lost.


  • Encryption time depends on the size of the drive and the amount of data stored.
  • You can continue using your computer normally while encryption is in progress.
  • No formatting, resetting, or data loss occurs during encryption.

 

Insert the USB Device

  1. Plug the USB drive into your laptop.
  2. A message will appear as below, indicating the drive must be encrypted to allow files to be saved, modified or deleted.

 

Create an Encryption Password

  1. Select Use a password to unlock the drive.
  2. Enter a strong password, as per G8’s password policies.
  3. Confirm the password.
  4. Click Next.

This password will be required whenever the USB drive is accessed.

Save the Recovery Key

⚠️ You will be asked to save a recovery key. Keep this key in a safe place. It can be used if you forget your password.

  1. Choose the option Print the recovery key

  1. Select the Printer Microsoft Print to PDF.
  2. Select a suitable online storage location such as Sharepoint or OneDrive and click Save. You may copy the file elsewhere once you have saved the file.

  1. You will receive confirmation that the recovery key was printed.

Start Encryption

  1. Click Start Encrypting.

 

  1. The encryption process will begin.

  1. You will see a progress bar indicating the % remaining to be encrypted.

 

Continue Using Your Device

Once encryption is complete:

  • The USB drive will show a padlock icon in File Explorer.
  • You can continue using the device normally.
  • When the device is plugged into a computer, you will be prompted to enter the password to unlock it.
  • You can still view existing files without encrypting, but the device will be read-only until encryption is completed.
  • If you attempt to save files onto the storage device without encrypting it, you will see an error, as below.


If you require any assistance or experience any issues during the process, please contact Service Desk.