Of course, they would not be able to open any of the files without the password. If the file names provide sensitive information, a thief could take advantage of that. One more problem with encrypted ZIP files: No matter which form of encryption you use, anyone with access to the files can see the name of the files within the archive. You’ll find these options near the lower-right corner of the dialog box. To encrypt an archive in 7-zip, once you’re at the Add to Archive dialog box, enter a password and select the Encryption method AES-256.

Email someone an AES-encrypted file, text them the password (safer than emailing it), and if they try to open it in Windows Explorer or File Explorer, they won’t be able to open any of the files within the archive.įortunately, most third-party zip tools, including the free 7-zip, support AES-256. Assuming you use a strong password, it’s for all practical purposes unbreakable.īut when you use it for ZIP archives, AES-256 comes with another problem: Windows’ own, built-in compression tool doesn’t support AES. It’s a popular and extremely strong encryption technique used in many programs. Unlike ZipCrypto, AES was not designed for ZIP files.

Download and install the latest version of 7-Zip. This Windows-compatible folder locking app uses powerful AES-256 encryption to secure each individual file or folder with its own unique password. You’d be far safer using the other option, AES-256. 7-Zip’s strength and simplicity makes it one of the best free methods for password protecting files and folders.

Password protect zipped file windows 10