How to Lock Your Computer Using a Flash Drive or Memory Card

Your computer stores more of your personal information than most other electronic device, with the possible exception of your smartphone. Documents, emails and website history can all hold information that is better left private. One way to secure your computer is to use a USB locking application. This type of program works by generating a key that is stored on your flash drive or memory card -- the application then restricts access to the computer unless that key is present.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Use USB System Lock. Like other USB locks, the free USB System Lock works by storing a key on your USB drive -- this key is required by your computer upon startup. The only way to bypass a system lock is to start your computer in safe mode, which restricts your access to programs and files.
   • 2
     Purchase USB Lock Key. The program works by generating a key -- stored on your flash drive or memory card -- that is required in order to bypass the lock screen. Even if you perform a reboot, your computer remains locked as long as the flash drive isn't present. USB Lock Key costs about $40 as of the time of publication.
   • 3
     Download USB PC Lock Pro, a free application that blocks access to your computer when your USB stick is present. Unlike the other applications, you unblock your computer by simply removing the USB stick. Because of this, USB PC Lock Pro is generally used to lock the computer in the presence of children, as advanced computer users can unlock the computer fairly easy.

Tips & Warnings

• These application leave room for other files on your flash drive or memory card.