Here comes a question: do you use a password to protect your Windows user account?
The answer is yes.
Well then, why not encrypt thumb drives with a password?
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Are files saved on flash drives not important?
Your answer must be they are vital.
So, how can you password protect USB drives in Windows 11 if you get this new operating system?

It can help encrypt your hard drive to keep the data safe in case it is theft or lost.
Also, you’re able to use it to password protect USB drive free.
If someone steals your USB stick, he cannot reach the data stored on the gear.

Only authorized users have access to the BitLocker-enabled equipment.
Without authentication, access is denied.
The following are steps for BitLocker USB Drive Windows 11.

Step 2: Go to theSystemtab, clickStorage.
Step 3: ExpandAdvanced storage settingsand then clickDisks & volumes.
Step 4: On the Disks & volumes parameters pane, all the drives are listed.

Just choose the USB flash drive that you want to encrypt and chooseProperties.
Step 5: In the new window, scroll down toBitLockerand clickTurn on BitLocker.
Step 6: Under theRemovable data drives BitLocker To Gosection, clickTurn on BitLocker.

Step 9: Decide how much of your drive to encrypt and clickNextto continue.
Step 10: Choose an encryption mode and clickStart encryptingto begin the process.
This encryption process can take some time depending on the size of the drive and encryption mode.

Then punch in in a password and you’ve got the option to pull up the encrypted data.
If you forget the password, you’re free to clickMore options > Enter recovery key.
And then clickBitLocker Drive Encryption, go to find your USB flash drive, and clickTurn on BitLocker.

Next, follow the instructions on the screen to put a password on the USB flash drive.
Final Words
How to password protect USB drives in Windows 11?
Just follow the above steps for this task.