How to Create Password Protected USB Flash Drive with SafeHouse Explorer

   Information

This tutorial will show you how to create a password protected flash drive that can be plugged into any computer.

The software used - SafeHouse Explorer - runs as a stand-alone executable file without needing to be installed, meaning that it can be run directly from USB.

   Note

File Safety Information

SafeHouse Explorer Portable Version contains no adware, spyware, toolbar installers and is currently safe to use. You should scan the download anyway for your own peace of mind.

Link to report on VirusTotal:

SafeHouse Explorer Portable - VirusTotal Report

Step 1

First you'll need to download the software needed. You can get the standalone portable version of SafeHouseExplorer here:

SafeHouseExplorer.zip

   Note

Requires Microsoft Windows

XP, Vista, Windows 7 or Windows 8

Step 2

Copy the executable to a formatted flash drive and run directly from the flash drive by double clicking the progam's executable:[/B]

Step 3

When the GUI opens, select the New Volume tab on the toolbar and the Create SafeHouse Volume Wizard will start.

Step 4

Choose a recognizable filename and unique description for your Private Storage Area:

   Tip

It's important to choose a filename that you can recognize - especially if you plan to create multiple volumes

Step 5

Choose the size of required volume in kilobytes, megabytes or gigabytes. The amount of available space is shown in the window.

   Note

Resizable volumes are not available in the free version so choose a size that suits your needs.

Step 6

Choose a strong password. Password strength is indicated as you type.

Step 7

You are now ready to create your volume:

   Note

There is no need to choose the option to create a desktop shortcut to open the volume.

Choose Create Volume and be aware that it will take some time to complete depending on the chosen volume size.

When finished you get the choice to open the volume. If you decide to do so - you can begin adding files or folders straight away via the usual methods.

Drag/ Drop

Copy/ Paste

Cut/ Paste

Step 8

When you've added your files choose the Close Volume icon on the toolbar. It is the one positioned to the right hand side of Open Volume and is marked with a red cross. X

Step 9

Then from the File menu - choose Exit to close the program.

   Tip

Do not simply unplug your flash drive. You risk corrupting your data. Instead use the following advice:

Safely Remove Hardware Tutorial

If you encounter any issues such as the device remaining locked and in use - then the sure fire method of safe removal is to switch off your computer and then unplug the flash drive.

Step 10

If you want to access your files all you need to do is plug in the flash drive and browse to the executable file on it. Double click the executable and the GUI will open.

Step 11

Choose Open Volume and click on your required SafeHouse file.

Step 12

You will be asked to type your password:

Step 13

Once you've typed your password - select Open and you will have access to your files/ folders.

   Tip

It's important to close the volume as shown in Steps 8 & 9 when you've finished with your files