Set drive security without SmartWare

Hello,

Is it possible to change drive security settings without installing Western Digital Smartware on my PC?

Thanks

osm101,

This may be possible depending on the generation of your Western Digital external disk drive. Newer models use a separate, independent application called “WD Security” to manage encryption and security behavior. However, units from previous generations will need WD SmartWare.

Thank you. How do I tell if my drives are of suitable generations to use with WD Security?

osm101,

This depends entirely on the model number of the device, but we are mostly looking at devices from mid-2012 onwards. Additionally, if the device is compatible with WD Security it will come with WD Security alongside WD SmartWare.