I have a folder with mostly Word documents that I need to password protect. Right now, I’m using 7zip, but it’s a hassle to extract, edit, and re-zip every time I need to work on the files. I know Windows has an encryption option, but I’ve heard I won’t be able to access the files on my laptop, which I need to do. Is there a secure way to lock a folder with a password while still keeping it safe from apps like Hiren’s and similar tools?
you can use bitlocker on a single filesystem, create a new partition in diskmgmt.msc and set it to mount the filesystem on a folder instead of a drive letter
try searching for ‘Secure Folders’ by Promosoft Software Limited on Softpedia. I’ve used it to lock folders with a password, and it worked pretty well for me.
You can use BitLocker or VeraCrypt.
but i also think windows has a built in feature for this
VeraCrypt, which replaced TrueCrypt, is a great free option if you need strong encryption and even plausible deniability. But if you’re just trying to keep nosy family or friends out, the simpler options should do the trick.
yeah, VeraCrypt is awesome, and EncryptPad is another great tool to have on hand.
What other stuff? Asking for a fiend.
Why use other stuff? Veracrypt will do exactly what he wants…why bother with anything else?
Are you trying to stop people in your home from accessing the folder, or just block access from your network? Your answer will help find the right solution. Windows has built-in tools for securing folders, but most are designed for network protection. If you’re trying to keep someone with physical access to your computer from getting in, you’ll need something like VeraCrypt or a similar program that locks the folder with a password. That’s much harder to bypass than basic file permissions.