2 Ways to Password Protect a Windows Folder [Step-by-Step]

Find out everything you need to lock folders and files on your PC

2 min. read

Updated onAugust 27, 2024

updated onAugust 27, 2024

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In this guide, we will show you how to password-protect a folder on Windows 11.

Whether you share your PC with other people or just want to make sure you keep sensitive information private, the steps below wil help you put a password on your folder:

How to lock folder with password in Windows 11?

1. Change Folder Properties

You can easily password protect your files from the prying eyes of others by configuring the Properties settings. Here is a guide step-by-step:

A window will open. Here, click onAdvanced.
Tick the box next toEncrypt contents to secure dataand then clickOK.
After you click onApply, a pop-up will open asking you if you want to back-up your file. Make your selection and the pop-up will close.
If you are encrypting a folder, you will be asked to choose whether you want all folders within that directory to be password protected. When you’ve decided, clickOK.
Your folder is nowpassword-protected by your accountas you can see by the little padlock symbol. Note that if you ever add new content to that folder, it will automatically be encrypted too.

2. Use a dedicated tool

If you wish to know how to lock and encrypt a folder on Windows 11 with a password, your best bet is to useWinZip. This tool protects your folder and files even on your user account.

With this, even if someone has access to your account, they won’t be able to open the secured folder. It gives you complete control of who can access the folders and files on your PC.

WinZip

Does Windows 11 have a secure folder?

Windows 11 does not have a secure folder per se. However, the Ransomware protection feature of Windows Security has aControlled Folder Accessoption.

This allows you to secure the select files and folders from unfriendly apps. Also, you can encrypt your folders. However, this folder will only be protected from other user accounts.

One of the goodies that came with Windows 11 is theimproved security. And a significant part of that is the ability to lock your folder to secure it. This is especially useful if you share your PC with other users.

Similarly, if you need a list of thebest folder locker for Windows 11, check our curated guide. Besides, read more aboutdisabling BitLocker in Windows 11.

And if you’re looking for convenience when sharing links,Windows Share to Gmailcan be done directly without all the manual copying and pasting.

Feel free to let us know the option you prefer and why in the comments below.

2 Ways to Password Protect a Windows Folder [Step-by-Step]#

How to lock folder with password in Windows 11?#

1. Change Folder Properties#

2. Use a dedicated tool#

WinZip#

Does Windows 11 have a secure folder?#