
After you enter the password, you will be able to access all the contents of the file. To access the folder, you will have to double-click on it, and then you will be prompted to enter the password you set. You will also need the password to have access to the folder. You will only be able to access the folder if you are logged into your account.
Once done, click on OK, and close all the Windows. Ensure you copy the password and note it down somewhere, so you don’t forget it. If using special characters is allowed in the passwords, then you should use that as well. Also, make sure your password is alpha-numeric. Make sure your password has an upper case as well as a lower case letter included. Ensure you choose a password with at least ten characters. You will have to create your encryption certificate, which will include the key to access the encrypted folder, and you will have to export it to the USB drive you have inserted. Next, insert the USB flash drive on your computer. If you’re unsure, you can check in your Windows Settings under System and About. Select the latest version – version 2.2 at the time of writing – and click on the download link on either the 32-bit or 64-bit version, depending on which version of Windows you are running. (Before you do that, you might want to read our advice on creating a strong password.) How do I install Easy File Locker?įirst, download Easy File Locker from here. It also means it can’t be uninstalled without knowing the password. The app works by password protecting itself, and preventing anyone from accessing the program and altering the settings on your protected file and folders. While there are a few different ways to password protect a file or folder in Windows 10 or 11, one of the easiest and most versatile is to use a free program called Easy File Locker. That may be handy if someone nicks your hard drive, but if everyone you wish to protect your data from already uses the same account, then it’s pretty much useless. EFS also safeguards your data using your Windows login details. As most of us own the Home version, that’s ruled out. The problem with EFS is that it’s only available if you’re using the Pro, Enterprise or Education editions of Windows 10 or 11. One method often mentioned when looking into password protecting your data is a built-in Windows feature called the Encrypted File System (EFS).
I’ve read about the Encrypted File System.
If you’d prefer to keep some stuff hidden from prying eyes, then it’s possible to protect a file or folder in Windows 10 and Windows 11 with a password. Do you and everyone else who uses your computer all log in with the same account? While this may simplify things, it also means that everyone will have access to your locally saved personal data.