Enable Bitlocker Encryption
Bitlocker Encrytpion is the latest encryption method for Vista. Rather than simply encrypt a single file Bitlocker actually encrypts the whole hard drive/partition, thus making the system more secure.
To use Bitlocker Encryption you need one of two components - a TPM complaint motherboard or a USB key. If your motherboard is TPM complaint, in other words, it has a TPM chip on the motherboard that hold encrypted keys, Bitlocker should be enabled by default. If your motherboard is not TMP complaint then Bitlocker will not be enabled by default and you will need to enable it. You will also need a USB key to store the encrypted keys on. Incidentally, you will need to insert the USB drive key into the USB port every time you boot your PC.
To enable Bitlocker proceed as follows:
1/ Click the Start Button
2/ From the Start Menu click Accessories and the Click Run
3/ In the Run Dialog box type: gpedit.msc
4/ In the Group Policy window click on Computer Configuration
5/ From the list that appears click Plus sign (+) next to Adminstrative Templates
6/ From the expanded menu click the Plus sign (+) next to Windows Compnents
7/ From the expanded menu that now appears click on Bitlocker Drive Encryption
8/ Now look for Control Panel setup: Enable advanced startup options
9/ If you highlight this option and then look on the left hand side of the window you will see a description of what this does. Also you will see a link marked 'Properties'. Click on this link to open the properties window.
10/ In the properties window click the radio button next to the 'Enable' option and then click OK
11/ Finally Go to Control Panel and click on the Bitlocker Icon. You should see a link now for enabling Bitlocker.