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How to Encrypt Files or Folders in Windows 10

Encrypted files require a password to be opened

3 min. read

Updated onJuly 12, 2024

updated onJuly 12, 2024

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Key notes

Encrypting a certain file or folder is probably the best way to keep it safe, so only you can access that file or folder.

Microsoft’s developers decided to keep the built-in encryption method in Windows 10 similar to the previous method.

Still, it’s good from time to time to go through the file encryption methods available in Windows, but not exclusively.

We have a dedicated guide onhow to open encrypted folders on Windows 10that you can check out.

How can I encrypt folders in Windows 10?

1. Encrypt folders in Windows 10 using the built-in tool

Although there are various third-party alternatives available online, your Windows 10 also has a built-in encryption tool that you can use, called EFS (Encrypted File System).

EFS is a very simple encryption tool, and you’ll make your files protected in a couple of minutes, with just a couple of clicks. This is probably the fastest way to encrypt your files and folders in Windows 10 (and any other version of Windows since XP).

But before we show you how to encrypt your files with EFS, we have to warn you that you’ll be able to access the encrypted file only with the login of the account you encrypted the file with.

Other user accounts (if with administrative permissions) won’t be able to access it. Thus, make sure to remember or write down the password somewhere, or your file will stay locked forever.

Right-click on the file or folder you want to encrypt and go toProperties.
On theGeneraltab, clickAdvanced.
Under theCompress and encrypt attributessection, click onEncrypt content to secure data.
ClickOKand close thePropertieswindow.
ChooseApply changes to the folder, subfolders, and filesorApply changes to this folder only, depending on your preference.
That’s that, your folder is now encrypted and its text is shown in green color.

If theencrypt folder option is greyed out, check out our dedicated article to find solutions to this problem.

2. Use a dedicated encryption tool (recommended)

If you think that Windows’ own encryption tool isn’t good enough for your files, you can try with some third-party encryption software.

Actually, the right third-party tool is an even better choice than EFS, because it offers more options, so you’ll be able to keep your files as safe as possible.

There are a lot of free encrypting tools out there, but the best way is to get premium software. It has many more features and it is a priority when it needs support from developers.

A first recommendation would beWinZip. You’ve probably heard of it since it’s currently the most popular file encryption and compression tool.

As a matter of fact, the program offers more file management options, including sharing, compressing, andbackingup files.

The encryption option allows you to zip your files with certified 128 or 256-bit AES encryption, keeping your files safe from unwanted eyes.

Plus, with WinZip, you can create read-only PDFs and add watermarks to deter copying.

Other notable features of WinZip include finding, opening, editing, moving, and sharing the files stored on PCs, networks, or cloud services.

The tool can be fully integrated with Dropbox, G-Suite, or OneDrive.

3. Use Microsoft Office to encrypt files and folders

Your Office document is now encrypted, and you’ll have to enter a password you set before accessing it.

How can I back up my encryption key?

Usually, Windows will offer you an option to back up your encryption key right after you create it. This can protect files in your drive so you don’t have todisable Recallbecause you’re worried about the safety of your information.

If you’re looking to encrypt a USB flash, we’ve gota list of the 12 best software solutionsthat will help you secure your files in no time.

Speaking of encryption, you might be interested in our guide on how toconvert ENC files, so don’t miss it.

As you can see, there are a couple of methods to keep your files safe, so it’s completely up to you which one you’ll use. If you have some questions or comments, just reach for the comments section below.

How to Encrypt Files or Folders in Windows 10#

How can I encrypt folders in Windows 10?#

1. Encrypt folders in Windows 10 using the built-in tool#

2. Use a dedicated encryption tool (recommended)#

3. Use Microsoft Office to encrypt files and folders#

How can I back up my encryption key?#