How to Protect Files in a Zipped Compressed Folder with a Password

Once you have added files to a compressed folder, you can protect the files in that folder by assigning a password to the folder. This increases security for your files and prevents access to them: a perfect idea for files that are stored on a common-use computer in a workspace or school.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Click “Start” and then click “My Computer.”

2. Navigate to the drive containing your compressed folder.

3. Double click the compressed folder.

4. Click “File” on the toolbar, then click “Add a Password."

5. The “Password” dialog box will appear. Type a password in the “Password” field, and then again in the “Confirm Password” field. Click “OK."

6. The next time anyone attempts to open one of the files in this folder, they will be prompted to enter the password.

Tips & Warnings

• Compressed file passwords are case sensitive.
• After you extract a file with a password, it is no longer protected.