Almost every business office worker wants to have at his disposal an application specifically designed to block access to a certain number of folders of his own choosing with files and important documents. Often, the decision to download a free program for locking folders on a computer is also made by individuals who have nothing to do with working within the walls of a business office, but who want to install limited access to files and folders on your hard drive. This is understandable, because at home, especially when children are running around the apartment all day, it is better to hide important data stored on the computer, and not for security reasons, but for the purpose of banal safety.
When deciding to download a program for locking folders, but not knowing which one to choose from a large list of solutions, you would be advised to turn your attention to the “Alfa Folder Tanpa Locker” application, which copes well with tasks prioritized by the user. With this application, after downloading in a free distribution package from the website portal, you can easily and naturally block access to any number of folders and files located in them that have been previously marked in the list. One single requirement for the user who decides to download this particular computer program For automatic locking folders, is a product of the simplest system settings, guaranteeing the highest convenience of work, and, as a result, satisfying performance.
Download free program to lock folders at maximum speed
On my own behalf, as a user who highly values the convenience of working with a computer and laptop, I want to emphasize the simplicity, I would say, even primitiveness of the user interface, which you can always verify by initially uploading to the directory hard drive installation file installer. You can set an access restriction, that is, you can block folders using a list compiled again by you, as a user of a program designed for that purpose, but first by downloading free link a self-extracting and instantly installable distribution kit, weighing no more than twenty megabytes.
Among other advantages this application You can highlight the convenience of the blocking process itself system folders, taking less than one second of precious time, which the user does not feel at all. I believe you agree with the statement that the speed of a running application on a computer is a very important factor that positively influences the user's choice, beyond any elimination.
The only alternative program that can compete, albeit slightly, with the product described above, is the “Folder Lock” application, which you can also download for free from the website link without going through tedious registration, viewing ads and at maximum speed.
Hello beloved readers, sometimes a question arises how to put a password on a folder. In this article I will show you how to do this quickly and easily, and most importantly for free, using 2 simple programs that put a password on a folder and prevent it from being deleted. I have updated the article, now everything is definitely working and fresh!
How to put a password on a folder Windows 7, 8, 10?
1 Password Protect program
We install in included Russification, we install it too. You can set a password for a folder either in the program or by clicking on any folder. In the program, click simply block.
Select a folder to block.
Set a password for the folder.
All folders are locked.
To unlock it, you need to do the same steps.
Enter the password for the folder.
Click unlock and you will remove the password from the folder. You can also block a folder without going into the program. Clicking on it right click mouse and selecting Password Protect USB.
And by entering the password, access to the folder will be blocked. If you try to enter the folder, the following error will appear.
2 Protected Folder program
During installation, it will ask you to enter a password for the program (password and hint). We do it for safety. Click Options to set the language to Russian.
Go to User Interface and select Russian language.
You can also uncheck the hide folder box. We only want to put a password on it, and not hide it.
Unfortunately, Windows does not provide the ability to protect a folder with a password. In many cases, a folder with a password would help protect important data from being viewed by strangers without any problems. I will discuss how to implement this on a laptop or computer in this article. The instructions are suitable for systems with Windows 7, 8 and 10
We'll talk about demons paid programs ah and their paid analogues, as well as some other methods ( without third party utilities ) with which you can protect folders and valuable data in them with a password.
Free utilities and programs for setting a password for a folder
There are few such programs, but there are those that can easily help you put a password on a folder. I will conduct a mini review of the most worthy ones, and you yourself will choose which one is best for you. They should be compatible with popular versions of Windows OS. All links will be listed immediately in the article.
It is important to know that it is not necessary to install more than 1 program for such purposes. They may conflict with each other.
Anvide Seal Folder
Probably the most popular, free program that allows you to create a folder with a password. There is support for the Russian language. Download the archive and run it. Add to the list 1 or more folders that need to be protected with a password. Just drag them into working window. Close access from the menu ( or press F5). Do this for all required files.
The settings allow you not only to encrypt the folder with a password, but also the data stored in it ( name, file size). All unsuccessful authorization attempts are remembered and shown if entered correctly.
You can easily check the remaining features yourself. The author of the program always helps if any problems arise.
WinMend Folder Hidden
A program with a very attractive interface that allows you to access folders using a password. There is Russian localization ( after installation and launch). Download and use for free.
Just a few control buttons. Except color scheme and there are no language settings. Drag a folder into the window and it will automatically become hidden. It can only be accessed from within the program.
The disadvantages include the lack of encryption without hiding folders.
SecretFolder
No less simple program on English, but has a very friendly interface that even an inexperienced user can understand. Download it and install it. Enter the password at 1st start. It will be required to enter the program where the protected folders will be located.
This password is also required when deleting ( For reliability, you can use recovery via Email address).
Once in the working window, you just need to drag the folder into it with the mouse or select it in the directory through the menu ( Add). Pay attention to the status. Lock - protected. Unlock - no protection. To gain access to the files again, you will need to go into the program and unlock the directory from here. The window below shows instructions that most likely will not be useful.
With these simple steps you can reliably prevent unauthorized people from accessing a folder with valuable files.
DirLock
The easiest to use program, by installing it you can protect a folder immediately from the Windows Explorer context menu ( will appear new line Lock/Unlock). There is nothing superfluous in it. Download it and lock the folder by entering the password 2 times. This must be done every time after viewing protected files.
All protected folders are displayed in the main program window. They can also be unlocked from here.
Convenient and safe solution.
Paid programs to protect folders
If free options are not suitable, then you can use paid ones. They are of course made of better quality and have more functionality, but you have to pay for it. I will consider the best programs in my opinion, and you decide which one is best for you.
Folder Guard
This program has a free trial period of 30 days. Russian language is available. Immediately after installation, you will be asked to enter a password to enter the program. To set a password for a folder, just drag it into the window. Each setup step is described in detail and no difficulties should arise. Download it and install it.
You can simply hide the folder, both regular and network, or you can set a password. It is possible to restrict access to different users. There is an emergency recovery function in case the password is forgotten.
There is even protection in safe mode. The program hides itself using the “Hidden” attribute. Call supported hotkey. Everything can be fine-tuned to suit your needs. Of the minuses, I would note that the certificate is in English.
In general, it is very convenient to use; in addition to setting a password, there are a lot of different options. They can really be useful in various situations.
IObit Protected Folder
The simplest of all paid programs to protect folders in your native language ( selectable in settings). 20 trial runs. Supports all current Windows versions. From the picture below you can see that it will not cause any difficulties in use.
There are several additional options in the options. I liked this program more than all the others. Convenient, fast, safe and there is nothing superfluous. Download it and try it yourself.
My Lockbox
Another program from a Russian developer that will allow you to easily protect your important data. There are no bells and whistles in it. When starting for the first time, you will be required to enter a password. Access to all folders will be opened after entering it. There is a recovery service via Email ( optional). Download and test.
The interface has only a few main buttons. It is possible to set a filter for trusted processes. Lots of themes. The functionality is similar to other programs.
- Install—adds protection to the folder.
- Clear - deletes it.
It is possible to use for free with only 1 folder. The paid version removes this limitation and adds user support.
Locking a folder with a password inside the archive
You can encrypt the virtual hard drive or flash drives. If you forget your password, it will be almost impossible to recover your data. Reliable method of protection using Windows without third party programs.
Microsoft script for setting a password for a folder
An unreliable method, the protection of which is very easily circumvented by simply turning on the display of hidden system files Windows. However, this is also the case in this article, as otherwise the folder is accessed using a password that was previously set. The advantage of this method is that you do not need to download any third-party applications.
What else can you do
In Windows, although there is no built-in function for setting a password for folders, you can get by simple creation second user and set a password for the account. In addition to this, limit rights. Quite simple and effective method data protection. However, an experienced user can handle this too.
I would also advise encrypting it. This can be done using the same Bitlocker utility or similar ones. There is also a disadvantage here in that the section can simply be deleted and the data will be lost.
Of all the above, the most in a reliable way protect the folder by encryption. But here, if you forget your password, you yourself lose access to the data. I add the folder to the archive and encrypt it. I think this is much more convenient and safer than everything else. It all depends on who needs to hide the information. There is no such thing as 100% protection against everyone.
I hope you have found a solution to your problem. I will answer all questions in the comments.
Which method did you use?
Many users have been waiting for a long time for Microsoft to add a native feature to Windows that allows them to password protect certain folders (for example, those containing sensitive information). So far this has not happened, which means that we have only one thing left - to use programs created by third-party developers. However, even though there are quite a lot of such programs, most of them are not of particular quality. We tested more than 20 tools of this type and selected the 5 best of them.
LocK-A-FoLdeR is an ideal solution for the most undemanding users. The program uses only one master password and has a very simple user interface. Moreover, the program does not offer any settings at all.
After selecting the folders that require protection, all you have to do is close the application. Instead of using encryption, this program simply hides folders from any user who might try to access them. To restore access to protected folders, you will have to open LocK-A-FoLdeR again and use the UnLock button.
This program is available completely free of charge.
This is one of the best programs we have tested. It has a lot of features and they all work very well. With Folder Guard, you can protect files and folders with individual passwords, or simply hide and lock them. The interface looks great - it's well structured and very easy to use. Folders that need to be protected can be selected in the tree list, or simply dragged into the program window.
A really useful feature of the program is the ability to create filters for various types files so that they are protected automatically. Additionally, you can selectively assign access rights to user accounts on your computer.
This program is paid, but there is a trial version that works for 30 days. Full version costs $59.95. By purchasing it, you will receive updates to any new version during the first year of use. In addition, one license can be used on 2 computers. However, after the first year, if you want to receive further updates, you will have to pay for a new license.
This program uses encryption to protect folders. Folder Protector does not require installation. So all you have to do is run executable file, select a folder, enter the password twice and click “Protect”. All files inside the encrypted folder will be hidden and you will only find a small executable file there, which you will need when you want to unlock the folder.
The program works for free with some restrictions. You can configure it to use 256-bit encryption only if you purchase the Pro version, which costs $22.95.
Folder Lock Lite is another good program that allows you to protect folders, files, and even entire disks. When you first launch, you will be asked to enter your master password. This password will be used for each folder or file that you choose to lock. You can then simply drag and drop the items you want to protect into the program's main interface. All folders selected for protection will be immediately locked and hidden. No one will be able to access them without your password.
trial version allows you to use this program for 30 days. For further use you will have to pay $39.95.
This program is easy to use and has a nice and intuitive user interface. It uses a single master password for all folders you choose to protect.
To add folders, use the “Add” button, but you can simply drag them into the program interface. Protected Folder offers several options, including ways you can block access to folders for users who don't have a password.
It's also worth mentioning that you won't be able to uninstall this program without first entering your master password. During deletion, all your protected folders will be automatically unlocked. This eliminates the risk of data loss.
20 runs of the program are given free of charge without any restrictions. A license for one year costs 600 rubles.
What we learned during testing
There is no need to install more than one program of this type. We encountered a problem where programs blocked each other, and because of this we could not access folders protected by one program after installing another.
Another problem is that most programs of this type forget to unlock the folders they protect when you delete them. Thus, you can easily lose access to your data. However, the programs described above do not have this drawback, so you won't be left with locked or hidden folders after uninstalling them.
Have a great day!
When you constantly use a computer, sometimes it becomes necessary to hide some information from unauthorized users and possible intruders who can access your files via the Internet. Set a password for personal folders in Windows 7. In this case, only you will be able to view their contents.
Why do you need a password?
In Windows 7, a password-protected folder is the same as in everyday life, a locked apartment door or a safe in which the necessary financial documents or personal diaries are stored.
In order to get into an apartment or open a safe, you need a key, and to view the contents of a protected folder you need a password. It's not all that complicated.
Setting a password
In the Windows 7 system itself, it is possible to set access levels for various user groups, including on the network. In addition, you can create a special key file with a password and use it to give access to folders.
Basically, to password-protect folders in Windows 7, external software is used to perform information security tasks. Currently, there are at least two dozen free and paid programs with which you can set a password for any document, archive or folder in the system:
- LocK-A-FoLdeR;
- Folder Lock Lite;
- Folder Protector;
- WinRaR;
- 7-ZIP;
- Flash Crypt;
- Anvid Lock Folder;
- Hide Folders.
Any of the listed programs can be found on the Internet using search engines Google or Yandex.
Creating a key file with a password
Windows 7 has built-in additional file storage EFS system, protecting data at the physical level. You need to create a special key file with a pfx extension, which will be stored on a flash drive or on a computer.
- First, right-click on the folder you are going to password-protect and select the “Properties” tab from the drop-down context menu.
Selecting the folder properties tab - In the folder properties window that opens, select the “General” tab in the top menu and in the “Attributes” section, click on the “Other” button.
Selecting Attributes - A window for selecting additional attributes will open. Check the content encryption checkbox.
Selecting content encryption - In the next window that opens, select “Encrypt content to protect data.”
Select folder and content - Confirm the start of the encryption process by clicking on “Archive now”.
Archiving confirmation - What will happen next automatic start export of certificates. Click the "Next" button.
Getting started - In the next window, check the radio button for selecting the PFX extension of the key file.
Selecting a file type - Set a password for the key file.
Setting a password - Export the data to a key file. To do this, click the “Browse” button and select the storage location and the name of the key file with extension. In our case, this is C:/Users/Sergey/Documents/dok.pfx. And click “Next” again.
Choosing a name for the key file - In the last open window When you finish creating the key file, click the “Finish” button.
Shutdown Now no outsider will be able to use the information located in the encrypted folder without knowing the password and having a key file.
This method of protection is applicable only if Windows 7 uses file system NTFS.
LocK-A-FoLdeR
This free program will ideal solution for any demanding user.
- After installation and launch, enter the master password twice, which will protect any folders in Windows 7.
- Next, click on the Lock A Folder tab and select the desired directory on your computer, then close the program. Protection is enabled.
Now no attacker will be able to get to your private information, because folders protected by the program will become invisible. They cannot be copied, deleted or damaged.
To restore access to a protected directory, open the program again, select the required folder in the window and click on the UnLock selected Folder unlock tab.
Lock a custom folder If desired, you can change the master password by clicking on the Change Master Password tab.
There is no Russian translation of the program, but if you wish, you can do it yourself by creating your own in the language folder at C:Program Files/Lock A Folder/Lang text file Russian.ini with translation. Take the content from the English.ini file and translate all expressions in quotes.
Folder Lock Lite
A paid program that allows you to protect files, folders and even entire disks. There is a 30-day trial period. Cost 39.95 USD (3000 rubles). Uses a master password, which you will need to enter twice the first time you launch Folder Lock Lite.
Folder Lock Lite is an easy-to-use program with a 30-day trial period
To install protection, you can simply drag the desired folder into the program window with the mouse, after which it will be locked and invisible to users whose access to the folder is prohibited without a password.
Folder Protector
When installing protection on folders, encryption is used.Folder Protector works from any media; it does not need to be installed. Just run the executable exe file, then select the desired folder, enter the password twice and press the button with the “Protect” lock.
All your files located inside the protected folder will become invisible to intruders. There will only be a small file left that is needed to unlock it.
Folder Protector does not require installation on your computer The free version of the program has some limitations. Encryption can only be configured in the paid Pro version. Its cost is 22.95 USD (1700 rubles).
WinRaR
A convenient free program for archiving data and setting passwords for files and folders. Required documents can be viewed directly from the archive.
Operating procedure:
Setting a password This completes archiving and password-protecting the folder.
After using archive programs, delete the original folder.
How to password protect folders using the WinRaR archiver (video)
7-ZIP
This program, like the previous one, is free.The sequence of actions in 7-ZIP is the same as in WinRaR. The only difference is the ability to select the type of file extension.
- After the program is launched, use the mouse to activate the desired folder, click the “Add” button at the top of the window and set the archive format in the tab that opens.
- Enter your password twice.
- Click the “OK” button and close the program.
The 7-ZIP program allows you to select the type of file extension Flash Crypt
When protecting folders in Windows 7 using this free program 256-bit AES encryption algorithm is used. In this case, the data is not hidden, but it is impossible to view it without a password. Flash Crypt works via context menu. It is possible to change the program settings and enable data compression during encryption. If you lose your password, it is possible to recover it.
Sequence of actions:
Setting a password Anvide Lock Folder
This is a free portable software utility that does not require installation and works from a flash drive. Anvide Lock Folder can also be located in any folder on your computer.
Sequence of actions:
- Launch the program using the ALF.exe file.
- First, you should secure the utility itself, for which you click on the icon with the image of a wrench and enter passwords on the “Security” tab.
- After that custom folder drag it with the mouse into the program window or add it using the button with the “+” sign.
- Now all that remains is to click on the closed lock icon, enter the password twice, click the “Close access” button and exit the program.
Anvide Lock Folder can be located in any folder on your computer In this case, the folder will be hidden and access to it will be possible only from Anvide Lock Folder.
Hide Folders
Shareware program from the developer FSPro Labs with a 30-day trial period. The program provides 4 types of protection:
- hiding files;
- access blocking;
- hiding files and blocking access;
- permission to read information without the ability to edit or delete.
Hide Folders works simply:
Setting a password for the program How to set a password for a network folder
Different groups of users working on the network have different levels of access to what is located on one of the network computers information. These are restrictions on reading, creating and editing various files etc. Access is prohibited by setting a password for the network working folder. Only a user with administrator rights can set protection.
Procedure:
- Sequentially open “Start” and “My Computer”, then in the top menu select the “Tools” tab and in the drop-down list the line “Folder Options”.
- After that, go through top menu to the "View" tab.
- Here from the item “Use simple general access to files”, uncheck the box and click the “OK” button at the bottom.
Windows 7 can use file NTFS system or FAT 32, so there are some differences in the settings. In FAT 32, after right-clicking on the desired folder, select the “Sharing and Security” tab from the drop-down menu, and in NTFS, using the same sequence of actions, select the “Security” tab. Next on the tab, turn on the radio button for sharing a network folder and here in the “Permissions” section you set access levels for each user group. In NTFS, the network setup will first start, after which you enable sharing. Next, everything is configured, as for FAT 32.
Now, if this has not already been done, set login passwords for each of the user groups:
- To do this, click “Start”, “Control Panel”, and then “ Accounts users."
- Select a user group and add a password.
- On the Advanced tab, you can assign passwords for local groups and users.
Now login passwords are set for main and local groups and users, and permissions for performing certain actions are set for the network folder depending on the access level.
In fact, you can protect a network folder in Windows 7 much easier, using the same programs and techniques as for regular folders.
Possible nuances
- When installed on a computer with Windows system 7 special programs For protection, keep in mind that you can work with no more than one program, as otherwise system failures may occur. Mutual resource blocking occurs.
- When uninstalling these programs, you should unlock protected folders because this does not always happen automatically.
Although Windows 7 does not have a built-in ability to directly password protect folders, it can be done using a key file or external programs specifically designed for this purpose. The last option is the simplest and most convenient.