Computer Tricks and Secrets

Short answer: you can turn an ordinary USB drive into a physical key so your Windows PC locks the moment you unplug it and unlocks when you plug it back in. Free tools like Predator do this, and Windows has a built-in "Dynamic Lock" that does something similar with your phone. Here is how to set each up and which to choose. Method 1: USB-key lock with free software (Predator) Predator is a free tool that converts a USB flash drive into an access key: Install Predator and plug in the USB drive you want as your key. It writes a small key file to the drive (this does not erase your other files). Set a password as a backup, in case you lose the USB. Now, when you remove the drive, the screen goes dark and the keyboard and mouse are disabled; plug it back in and the PC unlocks. Any regular USB stick works as the key, you do not need a special device. Method 2: Windows built-in Dynamic Lock (uses your phone) If you would rather not use a USB, Windows can auto-lock w...