If you share a computer with others or simply want to keep your important documents private. What you need to know would be a way to set a password for the folder.
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How To Protect A Folder In Windows 10
Using a password to protect a folder means that you need to enter a password to view the contents of that folder. You can also password protect individual files like folders.
In Windows Explorer, navigate to the folder you want to protect. Right-click on that folder.
Select Properties from the drop-down menu. At the pop-up window, select the General tab.
Click Advanced, then Encrypt content to secure data, then OK. Your username and password will be used here.
Double click on the folder to check.
Note: if the Encrypt contents to secure data option is not selectable or unavailable, this may be because you are using a version of Windows 10 Home that does not support this feature. Or it could be because the hard drive contains files that are not formatted with NTFS.
How To Hide A Folder In Windows 10
When you hide a folder or file in Windows, it won’t show up in the folder list, unless the show hidden items option is checked.
Right-click on the folder you want to hide. Select Properties. Select the General tab, under Attributes, select Hidden. Click Apply.
If the file still appears in the folder list, follow these steps:
In the Windows Explorer window (Window + E key) click the View tab. Uncheck Hidden Items.
That’s it, you will see the folder is now hidden, to show that folder again, just tick the Hidden Items again.
Using Software to Protect A Folder In Windows 10
If you use Windows 10 Home that does not support Windows’ default password setting function or need a better level of protection for important documents. Installation of third-party software is required.
Folder Locker: This is one of the most popular software supporting locking and encrypting folders and many other features. Folder Locker has a 30-day trial version of support.
7-Zip: This is a free file and folder compression utility that includes the ability to password protect compressed files and folders.
Folder Guard: This commercial version allows you to password protect files, folders, and other Windows resources.
Protected Folder: This is a great software program that allows you to password protect folders for a small fee.
WinRAR: Like 7-Zip, WinRAR is a popular password and file compression software on Windows.
Things to keep in mind when encrypting or password protecting folders
- There is no such thing as a 100% completely protected file. Some many tools or utilities guide you to break the encryption and password on the file. However, the protection methods listed above will protect your files from the majority of users. If you are working with sensitive data, a commercial product to protect your files and data is essential.
- Although a file or folder can be password protected, it can still be deleted (unless you use a program that supports file protection from deletion). Therefore, always remember to back up all your files, even those that are password protected.
- If you forget your password, unless you are willing to take the time to crack it or pay someone, all protected data will be lost. Therefore, it is important to back up copies of these files, in case loss occurs.
