How to Encrypt a Folder on Windows

Encrypting a Folder

1. 
   Open 7-Zip. You will find it in the

   

   menu. This opens a list of all folders on your computer.
2. 
   Navigate to the folder you want to encrypt. Just make sure it's visible on the screen—don't open it.

   1. For example, if you want to encrypt a folder that's in your own Documents folder, double-click Users, then double-click your username. You'll see the Documents folder inside the Users folder.
3. 
   Click the folder you want to encrypt. It is now highlighted in a different color, which means it's selected.
4. 
   Click Add. It's the first icon at the top of 7-Zip. You'll also see a '+' symbol on the button. A window will appear.
5. 
   Select a folder from the 'Archive' drop-down menu. This is where the encrypted folder will be stored.

   1. Use the ⋯ button to locate the folder.
6. 
   Set a password for your encrypted folder. To do this, type a password into the first box in the 'Encryption' area, then type it into the second box for confirmation.

   1. It's extremely important that you remember this password, as you'll need it to access these files.
   2. The default encryption method is AES-256. You'll see that it's selected from the Encryption drop-down. There's no need to change it.
7. 
   Check the box next to 'Delete files after compression.' This ensures that there will be no unencrypted version of the folder, making it safe from prying eyes.
8. 
   Click OK. The folder is now encrypted. When you try to open it, you'll be prompted to enter a password.