How to encrypt your Kindle Fire HDX - CNET

Beyond just using a PIN code lock screen, Amazon’s Kindle Fire HDX and HDX 8.9-inch tablets can also be secured with device encryption.

 February 26, 2014 10:47 AM PST

(Credit: Ed Rhee / CNET)

Device encryption can be a great way to keep your data secure in case it falls into the wrong hands. For many users, however, it can be overkill and there’s usually a performance hit to a device that’s been encrypted. Using a PIN code to lock the device is usually an effective deterrent and software tools like Find My iPhone and Android Device Manager can help track, lock, or wipe lost devices.

Unfortunately for Kindle Fire HDX owners, there’s no app available that’s comparable to Find My iPhone or Android Device Manager. If you want to be extra cautious with your data or if you’re using a Kindle Fire HDX in an enterprise environment, here’s how to encrypt it:

Step 1 : Make sure you have the latest version of Fire OS installed, then fully charge your Kindle Fire HDX.

Step 2 : With your Kindle Fire HDX plugged in to a wall charger, go to Settings> Security, then select Encryption.

(Credit: Screenshot by Ed Rhee / CNET)

Step 3 : Tap on the “Encrypt tablet” button. If your Fire HDX isn’t fully charged or plugged in, you won’t see this option.

(Credit: Screenshot by Ed Rhee / CNET)

Step 4 : If you have a PIN, you’ll need to enter it, then set an encryption password. This password is different than your lock screen PIN. It will be used only when you boot up the Kindle Fire HDX.

Step 5 : After you’ve entered your encryption password, tap the “Continue” button to begin the encryption process.

(Credit: Screenshot by Ed Rhee / CNET)

Your Kindle Fire HDX will reboot, then begin encrypting. Depending on the amount of data stored on your Kindle Fire HDX, the process could take up to an hour to complete, though our test Kindle only took 12 minutes.

Keep in mind that there’s no way to decrypt your Kindle Fire HDX once it’s been encrypted. To remove the encryption, you’ll have to perform a factory reset and erase all your data. Additionally, if the wrong encryption password is entered 30 consecutive times, your Kindle Fire HDX will automatically be reset to factory defaults and your data erased.