How Do I Encrypt My Device or Specific Files?

For Windows Users (Device Encryption)

1. Check if Device Encryption is Enabled:

   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Device Encryption.
   • If it says On, encryption is already active.

2. Turn On Device Encryption:

   • If it’s off, click Turn On. Follow the prompts to complete the process.

3. Use BitLocker (If Available):

   • Open Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
   • Click Turn On BitLocker next to your drive.
   • Follow the setup wizard to save a recovery key and start encryption.

For Mac Users (FileVault Encryption)

1. Open FileVault Settings:

   • Click the Apple Menu and choose System Settings.

2. Go to FileVault:

   • Navigate to Privacy & Security > FileVault.

3. Turn On FileVault:

   • Click Turn On FileVault.
   • Follow the prompts to enable encryption and save your recovery key.

4. Wait for Encryption to Complete:

   • Your drive will encrypt in the background, which may take some time.

Encrypting Specific Files (Both Windows and Mac)

1. Use a File Compression Tool:

   • On Windows, right-click the file, select Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder, and set a password using a third-party tool (e.g., 7-Zip).
   • On Mac, right-click the file, select Compress, and use a third-party app to add encryption.

2. Save Files to an Encrypted Drive:

   • Move files into a BitLocker or FileVault-encrypted drive for added security.