All the forums, tech advice and FAQs on Bitlocker have complex scenarios using TPM or External Keys with partioned drives for system and OS - or that Bitlocker can be used on fixed hard drives or removable drives ... but what about just on one data partition using a single hardware drive? I simply want to set up a new computer that my family can use as well but with a separate partition (e.g. D:\ Drive) for my personal data that I can then encrypt with BitLocker. In older computers (e.g. XP) I used to have a C:\ drive that ran everything and held all the folders (My Documents, Desktop, etc.) for multiple users, and a small partitioned drive (D:\) for my personal documents (mostly to stop the kids accidentally deleting or corrupting them). Can I use Bitlocker on a data partition only (D:\ Drive) but without having to use BitLocker on the OS files (C:\ drive)? I expect that I will need to enter a password every time I want to access or back-up the drive which is fine. If so, do I need to partition the hard drive before installing Windows 7 (64 bit) ? Are there any considerations for other users (my family) on the machine because of this? Thanks RB, England

Bitlocker is made to secure the system disk and allow the use of USB devices that are themselves secure. The software is meant more for government and corporate needs where restricted access to data is needed. The TPM chip is needed to use the sowftare that way. Using the chip is a means to secure a machine better. Easier for a personal machine use passwords to log on then on sensitive files, use the Windows encryption. then each user account is protected, even administrators are safe Make sure you backup data to a secure system in case the system fails. Otherwise you may loss assess to your data. Elected! Your votes and support have got me my 2010 MVP! Developer | Windows IT | Chess | Economics | Hardcore Games | Vegan | PC Reviews