Encrypting files in Windows 10 is a simple process that can be done through various methods. Each method offers different levels of security and convenience; it is important to consider which method best suits the needs of the user.
1. BitLocker
BitLocker is the built-in encryption feature available in Windows 10 Professional and Enterprise editions, allowing users to quickly and easily encrypt their data. It works by encrypting the entire drive, locking it with a personal password and preventing unauthorized access. The user can unlock the encrypted drive using the same password. Some of the benefits of using BitLocker include:
• Improved data protection – Your data is encrypted and secure from hackers and malware.
• Easy to set-up and use – Setting up a new encrypted drive and managing existing ones is simple and intuitive.
• Customizable encryption settings – Users can choose the strength of the encryption (128-bit or 256-bit) depending on their device and the sensitivity of their data.
To use BitLocker, open the Control Panel and select System and Security. Open BitLocker Drive Encryption and follow the onscreen instructions.
2. VeraCrypt
VeraCrypt is an open-source disk encryption software for Windows 10 and other platforms. It essentially works in the same way as BitLocker, but has stronger encryption algorithms and carries less risk of backdoors due to its open-source nature. Using VeraCrypt you can encrypt both entire drives or individual files. Like BitLocker, VeraCrypt also encrypts files with two algorithms, AES and Twofish, offering more robust protection.
To use VeraCrypt, download the software from their official website and install it. To encrypt a drive or file, open VeraCrypt and select the volume you want to encrypt. Then click “Create Volume” and follow the on screen instructions.
3. File and Folder Encryption
If you only need to encrypt specific files (and not the entire drive), you can do this using the built-in Windows encryption tool, XCIPHER. This is available in Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise editions. XCIPHER is similar to VeraCrypt, but it doesn’t require any additional software installation. To use XCIPHER, simply right click on the file or folder you wish to encrypt, select Properties, go to the Advanced Attributes tab and check the “Encrypt contents to secure data” box.
For added convenience, you can also use third-party software such as AxCrypt and 7Zip to quickly and easily encrypt your files. These encryption tools will compress the data and password protect it, preventing anyone without the correct passcode from accessing it.
Whichever encryption method you choose, it’s important to remember to store your passwords securely and back-up your files to ensure your important data remains safe.