How to Create an Encrypted ZIP With 7Zip
7Zip is an open-source file-compression software that supports the 7z, Tar and Zip file-compression formats. 7Zip boasts a high compression ratio and can be used to compress files into smaller sizes than the Microsoft Windows built-in compression handler. In addition, 7Zip supports the creation of encrypted Zip files. When a compressed file is encrypted, you must have the password in order to unzip the file and access the information contained in the compressed folder. 7Zip makes it easy to create encrypted Zip files to protect your sensitive information.
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Instructions
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Open your start menu and click "All Programs" to locate 7Zip. Click the "7Zip File Manager" to launch the program.
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Use the 7Zip File Manager to navigate your computer's files and folders. Locate the information you want to compress into an Encrypted Zip with 7Zip.
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Click on the file or folder you want to compress. Click "Add" in the 7Zip toolbar to add the folder to an archive.
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Select "Zip" from the "Archive Format" drop-down menu. Choose the amount of compression from the "Compression Level" drop-down menu. "Normal" compression is good for most file sizes, but you can compress larger files with "Maximum" or "Ultra" settings. Keep in mind that higher levels of compression use more processing power and may affect your computer's performance while 7Zip compresses the file.
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Choose how the files will be compressed. This option can be left on its default selection unless you have special needs for your Zip file.
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Input your password under the "Encryption" heading. Input your password again to verify it. Select your encryption method from the drop-down. Click "OK" to Zip and encrypt the compressed file.
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Tips & Warnings
If you use the 7z archive format for your compressed file, you can also choose to encrypt the names of the items in the compressed file.
