Many users have been waiting for a long time for Microsoft to add a native feature to Windows that will allow you to password protect certain folders (for example, those that contain sensitive information). So far, this has not happened, which means that there is only one thing left for us - to use programs created by third-party developers. However, even though there are a lot of such programs, most of them are not of particular quality. We have tested over 20 instruments of this type and selected the top 5 of them.
LocK-A-FoLdeR is the ideal solution for the most undemanding users. The program uses only one master password and has a very simple user interface. Moreover, the program does not offer any settings at all.
After selecting the folders that need protection, all you have to do is close the application. Instead of using encryption, this program simply hides the folders from anyone who might try to access them. To regain access to protected folders, you will have to reopen LocK-A-FoLdeR and use the UnLock button.
This program is available completely free of charge.
This is one of the best programs we've tested. It has a lot of features, and they all work very well. With Folder Guard, you can protect files and folders with individual passwords, or simply hide and lock them. The interface looks great - it's well structured and very easy to use. The folders you want to protect can be selected in the tree view, or you can simply drag and drop them into the program window.
A really useful feature of the program is the ability to create filters for different types of files, so that they will be protected automatically. In addition, you can selectively assign access rights to user accounts on your computer.
This is a paid program, but there is a trial version that works for 30 days. The full version costs $ 59.95. By purchasing it, you will receive updates to any new version within the first year of use. In addition, one license can be used on 2 computers. However, after the first year, if you want to receive further updates, you will have to pay for a new license.
This program uses encryption to protect folders. Folder Protector does not require installation. Thus, all you have to do is launch the executable file, select a folder, enter your password twice and click Protect. All files inside the encrypted folder will be hidden, and you will only find a small executable file there, which you will need when you want to unlock the folder.
The program works for free with some restrictions. You can only configure it to use 256-bit encryption if you purchase the Pro version, which costs $ 22.95.
Folder Lock Lite is another good program that allows you to protect folders, files and even entire disks. On first launch, you will be prompted for a master password. This password will be used for every folder or file that you choose to lock. Then you can simply drag and drop the items you want to protect onto the main interface of the program. All folders selected for protection will be immediately locked and hidden. No one can access them without your password.
The trial version allows you to use this program for 30 days. For further use, you will have to pay $ 39.95.
This program is easy to use and has a nice and intuitive user interface. It uses a single master password for all folders you choose to protect.
To add folders, use the "Add" button, but you can simply drag and drop them into the program interface. Protected Folder offers several options, including ways in which you can block access to folders for users who do not have a password.
It is also worth mentioning that you cannot uninstall this program without first entering the master password. During the deletion, all your protected folders will be automatically unlocked. This eliminates the risk of data loss.
20 launches of the program are given free of charge without any restrictions. A license for one year costs 600 rubles.
What we learned during testing
You do not need to install more than one program of this type. We faced a problem when programs blocked each other, and because of this we could not access the folders protected by one program after installing another.
Another problem is that most programs of this type forget to unlock the folders they protect when you uninstall them. Thus, you can easily lose access to your data. However, the programs described above do not have this drawback, so after removing them you will not be left with locked or hidden folders.
Have a great day!