How to Password Protect Files

If there is a bunch of files on your system that you would like to password protect, you can move them all to a zipped folder and password protect the folder. Follow these simple steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows OS

1. 
   Create A New Compressed Folder and Rename It

   Right click an open space on your desktop and scroll down to New. Select Compressed (ZIP) Folder and type in a name for your folder. Open the folder and minimize it to the taskbar.

2. Locate all of the files you want to password protect. Left click, hold and drag them down to the New Zipped Folder on the taskbar. The folder window will open up and you can release the files into the folder. You can also make a new folder for different files you may have if you want.

3. 
   Add a Password to Your New Folder

   You can password protect your folder now. With the new folder open go to file and click Add A Password. Don't forget to write your password down, if you forget it you are out of luck. You may notice that the files are still in their original folders. You will need to go back and delete them. Your files will still be in the new zipped folder after you delete them from the original folder.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't Forget Your Password

Resources

• How to Create a File List
• How to Transfer Files
• How to Recover Files

[jkw010]

on 10/26/2009 Definitely the easiest solution for XP, but I couldn't figure it out in Vista. Plus anyone can see the file names inside the zip folder. I recommend 7zip.

[iknewthat]

on 7/12/2009 Great article. 5***** & recommendation!

[greatgreat8]

on 5/21/2009 great tips

[jenniferclaerr]

on 5/8/2009 Great tips on password protecting files. Thanks!

[langleycornwell]

on 5/8/2009 This is important and helpful information about password protecting files. Thanks, 5*s.