Password protecting files and folders can help to ensure that unauthorized users are not able to access your private information. Windows offers several options for password protecting your files and folders so that only those who know the password can gain access.
1. Change File or Folder Permissions
One of the most commonly used methods to protect files or folders on Windows is to change the file or folder permissions. The user can set specific access rights to individual users, groups of users, or everyone. This method can be used to limit or prevent access to certain files or folders from unauthorized users. To do so, open the folder or file, and right click it. Then select Properties and go to Security tab. Here you can add or remove users and assign specific access rights to them.
2. Use NTFS Encryption
Encryption is another powerful tool to protect your data from being accessed by strangers. Windows allows using the NTFS encryption feature which encrypts the entire content of a file or folder. To enable this feature, right-click on the folder or file and select Properties > Advanced. Then select the “Encrypt Contents To Secure Data” checkbox and click Apply.
3. Compressing Files and Folders with Password Protection
Compressing files and folders is another way to protect sensitive data from prying eyes. When you compress files and folders, the data is converted into a ZIP or RAR file format. However, compressing the files doesn’t make them secure since anyone can open the compressed file. To prevent this, you can set a password for the zip or RAR file.
To do this, right-click on the file or folder, select Send To and then click Compressed (zipped) Folder. This will create a ZIP file of the file or folder. Then right-click the ZIP file and select “Add a password” option. Enter the desired password and click OK. Now only those who know the password will be able to open the compressed file.
4. Hide the Files or Folders
Hiding the files or folders is the simplest way to keep them away from prying eyes. To hide the files or folders, right-click on it and select Properties. Then go to the General tab and check the “Hidden” box. Now the file or folder will become invisible as long as the “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” option is unchecked in the Folder Options window.
5. Third-Party Applications
If you need more control over your data, then you can also opt for third-party applications. These apps offer advanced features such as setting access rights for different users, setting multiple passwords for a file or folder, and even restricting other applications from accessing the data.
You should also be aware of the fact that any encryption or password protection methods won’t be completely secure if you don’t take other security measures such as updating the operating system regularly, using a firewall, and installing anti-virus software. Strong passwords can also help to protect your data from getting into the wrong hands.