Final answer:
To protect files on a desktop operating system without a TPM, you can use software-based encryption solutions, such as third-party encryption software or built-in file-level encryption. Additionally, encrypting files before transferring them to the desktop OS can provide added security.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you need to protect files on a desktop operating system without a TPM (Trusted Platform Module), you can use software-based encryption solutions. One option is to use third-party encryption software, such as VeraCrypt or BitLocker (if available), which do not require a TPM. These tools allow you to create encrypted containers or encrypt entire drives to safeguard your files.
Another alternative is to use file-level encryption within the operating system itself. For example, on Windows, you can utilize the built-in Encrypting File System (EFS) to encrypt specific files or folders. This ensures that only authorized users can access the encrypted content.
Lastly, if you're concerned about confidentiality, you can also consider encrypting files before transferring them to the desktop operating system. This way, even if someone gains unauthorized access to your computer, they won't be able to decrypt the files without the encryption key.