The Kingston DataTraveler Locker+ series of USB flash drives provide the expected level of performance for a USB memory stick, with the added security of password protected access and 256-bit AES Hardware Based Encryption, for a slight premium in cost over non-secure storage.

Secure storage

Not usable as boot device; not compatible with Linux

As the world's largest independent manufacturer of memory products, Kingston Technology doesn't need much of an introduction. The company got its start in 1987, when the computer industry was suffering from a severe shortage of surface-mount memory chips.

Mandatory security on all files; Hardware based 256-bit AES encryption; Includes "lockdown" mode for increased security; Compatible with Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7 and Mac OS X; Five year warranty; Reasonably priced

Slow write speeds; Not bootable

The Kingston DataTraveler Locker+ puts government-grade security onto a flash drive for the masses, with 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption for an extremely reasonable price ($14 street for 8GB).

Professional-grade encryption in a consumer flash drive; Low price per GB.

Not Linux compatibile

The most basic form of memory storage today is the flash drive. Since the preponderance of USB flash drives, I've forgotten and lost many. Their small size is to blame for that, but it's hard to deny they're essentially indispensable.

Kingston's 16GB DataTraveler Locker relies on software locking out a partition. We much prefer this to the common hardware encryption, which first mounts a virtual CD drive and then upon proper authentication shows the data partition. The problem with this?

Software-based encryption means the non-encrypted partition is viewable on all operating systems; file system willing; Impressive sequential and 4K random read speeds; Five-year warranty

Encrypted partition is viewable under Windows only

A well made, robust, secure, good value for money, flash drive, with fast transfer rate.

Well made/robust; easy to set up and use; secure password data protection; fast data transfer rate

Not all the 32GB can be used; the key ring/tie has little strength

With the increasing awareness of the need for protection of personal data to mitigate ID theft and fraud, consumers are gravitating towards solutions that add security but aren't too cumbersome or intrusive.

If you were in the market for a secure USB drive and you didn't work for a three-letter agency, then Kingston's DataTraveler Locker+ has been a great choice. It's affordable, easy to use, and reasonably secure, even if it doesn't have the most hardcore of credentials, like FIPS Level 2...

The Kingston DataTraveler Locker+ G2 is Kingston's update to last year's Kingston DataTraveler Locker+ (8GB) , which won an Editors' Choice for its simple security and affordable price.

Pro-grade security at consumer prices; New design combines substance and style

Not Linux compatible; No way to secure cap

There are two types of flash drive users. The first is the usual type that many of us are. The one that simple use it to transport random data from one location or PC to another. I can honestly say I believe that 85% of flash drive users fall in this category.