secure usb key? how long is the memory good for?

[edmicman]

I'm thinking of getting a small USB key that I can keep passwords, private info, etc. on so that it isn't on my computer. Are there keys that are encrypted, or would I have to look at file level encryption? I'm thinking stuff like password lists, account informations, etc., which would probably be kept in spreadsheet form or something.

Also, how long is USB memory good for? Like, is it just flash memory that needs a power source every so often or else it will lose everything? Or once I save something to it, will it be able to be stored there for a long time? Thanks!

 

[JackBurton]

USB flash can store data for a looooong time, and you can also password protect your data.

 

[JBT]

I belive it lasts a VERY long time I think it can survive for about 1000 full writes meaing all the of the drive being filled

 

[Cheetah8799]

Whatever you put on the memory should be there as long as the drive works. However, as mentioned by the others, there is a life expectancy to flash memory. It all depends on how many read/write operations are done on it.

There is a Linux file system called jffs which may provide you with more details than you ever wanted to know. here

 

[edmicman]

cool, thanks guys. now its off to hot deals to find a good cheap drive!

 

[Jumpem]

What's a good tool for password protecting Excel spreadsheets or a small folder?

 

[Cheetah8799]

I didn't notice the first part of your question...

There are some usb keys that advertise some sort of encryption. YOu will want to research this more before buying. I think some of them do it via a program in Windows or your OS, so you may be restricted to using it in a Microsoft Windows system, as opposed to being able to use it in Mac or Linux as well. These "encrypted" usb devices are often more expensive as well...