Password Protect Folders in Windows

 Password Protect Folders in Windows

We create thousands of documents on a daily basis, some of which are important and need secrecy and security. Microsoft Office offers its users password protection for files and folders that include delicate information that needs to be secured. But, every user should know how to protect their files and folders even if they are not using any Office software.

Why password protect files?

If you share your computer with others, there is always a chance of human error — the accidental deletion of an important document, the mistaken modification of a critical file, the accidental sharing of a private folder, etc.

Sometimes you’re your own worst enemy. Sharing sensitive information over email with the wrong recipients is an unfortunate if not entirely too common source of data breaches. Last January, the Leicester City Council (in the U.K.) sent the wrong spreadsheet to some 27 companies. Sadly, that spreadsheet contains personal information belonging to a lot of people. If it can happen to them, it can happen to you.

Built-in folder encryption

Let’s start with the most straightforward way to encrypt your folders (and all the files within them) — Windows folder encryption. To encrypt a file or folder in Windows 7, 8, or 10, follow these steps:

1. 1. Navigate to the folder/file you want to encrypt.

2. 2. Right click on the item. Click Properties, then click the Advanced button

3. Check Encrypt contents to secure data.

1. 4. Click OK, then Apply.

2. 5. Windows then asks whether you wish to encrypt the file only, or its parent folder and all the files within it as well. We recommend you opt for full folder encryption, just to be on the safe side.

3. 6. Now, once you navigate to the encrypted folder, you will see a small yellow lock on the file icon. Also, when you add new content to that folder, it will automatically be encrypted too.

To be clear, Windows file encryption protects your files against anyone who gets their hands on your computer. The encryption is tied to your Windows account, so when you are logged in, the files decrypt on the fly by the operating system. However, if someone were to log in through another account, they would not be able to access files that were encrypted under your username.

Your files are accessible through your account, and if someone gets unauthorized access to your computer while it’s logged in, encryption is practically useless. This is why it is critical to create a strong login password in the first place.

Power users can also use this method by LaptopMag.com to password lock folders in Windows using a small piece of code.

Thanks for Reading...

Masud Rana