Make sure to allow the installer to add the relevant options to the Windows Explorer right-click context menu. To do that, install any of the programs we’ve mentioned above. You can also use a file archiving tool, like 7-Zip ( Free), WinZip ( Free), or WinRAR ( Free), to compress a folder and add password protection to it through archive options. File Compression Tools: 7Z, WinZip, WinRAR, etc. However, I would suggest Easy File Locker because it is free, easy-to-use, and has an extensive set of features.ĭownload Easy File Locker: ( Free) 4. If you’re looking for free software other than Easy File Locker, you can check out SecretFolder ( Free), which also works as advertised for the most part. Do note that both are paid apps, with a price tag of $39.95 in each case. There are several other folder-locking software available for Windows 10, like Folder Guard ( Free trial) and Folder Lock ( Free trial). Once you lock a folder or file, you can only unlock it by entering a chosen password. Then, choose between Access, Write, Delete and Visibility options, and click on ‘Start Protection’. All you need to do is set a password in Easy File Locker and select a file or folder. The software gives you options to hide a folder, make it inaccessible, deny any changes and make it undeletable as well. One of the best utilities to lock folders in Windows 10 is a freeware program called Easy File Locker. Third-Party Utilities: Easy File Locker, Folder Guard & More If it isn’t available on your computer, the ‘Encrypt contents to secure data’ option will be greyed out.ģ.

Note: This feature is hardware-dependent and is not available on all devices. Once done, you will see a lock symbol over your folder’s icon.

Then, click on ‘OK’ to apply the encryption attributes to the folder. In the General tab, click the ‘ Advanced‘ button and enable ‘ Encrypt content to secure data‘. Right-click on the target folder and select Properties.Once you encrypt a folder, it will only be accessible via your user account and password. This method won’t add password protection to a folder, but it will make sure other user accounts cannot access the folder. Windows 10 offers yet another native option to encrypt and secure your folders. You can also use a USB flash drive for additional protection. Once the encryption is in place, you will have to enter your chosen password following every restart to access that drive.

Dropbox secure folder