TrueCrypt - secure file storage

Truecrypt secures your files by preventing anyone without the correct password from accessing them. It is an electronic 'safe', to lock up your files.

Homepage www.truecrypt.org Computer Requirements Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista Administrator rights required for installation or to create volumes but not to access existing volumes Version used in this guide 6.1a License Free and Open Source Software

Installing TrueCrypt Read the brief Hands-on Guide Introduction Click the TrueCrypt icon below and 'Open' or 'Run' the installer. If necessary, save the installer first, then find it and doubleclick it Read the installation instructions below before continuing If you saved the installer to your computer, you may delete it after installation TrueCrypt:

Required Reading

• How-to Booklet chapter 4. How to protect the sensitive files on your computer

Level

• (Standard Volumes): 1: Beginner, 2: Average, 3: Intermediate, 4: Experienced, 5: Advanced
• (Hidden Volumes): 1: Beginner, 2: Average, 3: Intermediate, 4: Experienced, 5: Advanced

Time required to start using this tool:

• (Standard Volumes): 30 minutes
• (Hidden Volumes): 30 minutes

What you will get in return:

• The ability to effectively protect your files from intruders or unauthorised access
• The ability to easily and securely store backup copies of your important files

1.1 Things you should know about this tool before you start

TrueCrypt will protect your data from being accessed by locking it with a password that you will create. If you forget the password, you will lose access to your data! TrueCrypt uses a process called encryption to protect your files. Please bear in mind that the use of encryption is illegal in some countries. Rather than encrypting specific files, TrueCrypt creates a protected area, called a volume, on your computer. You can safely store your files inside this encrypted volume.

TrueCrypt offers the ability to create a standard encrypted volume or a hidden volume. Either one will keep your files confidential, but a hidden volume allows you to hide your important information behind less sensitive data in order to protect it even if you are forced to open up your TrueCrypt volume. This guide explains both processes in detail.

During installation, you will be prompted to Install or Extract the software. The first option is best for those who wish to use TrueCrypt on their computer, while the second option is for those who wish to carry a portable version of TrueCrypt on a USB memory stick.

Check: The desired option and proceed through the installation