Community Newsletter: Q&A: 9/9/05 Is it possible to password-protect files and folders?

Joey!! What about using XP's built-in EFS?

In reply to: 9/9/05 Is it possible to password-protect files and folders? by Lee Koo (ADMIN) 

Okay, a few might guess I am a greater fan of RSA Securities than Microsoft, but ...

While we talk about several programs, no one is mentioning the fact that XP Pro has EFS (encrypted file system) built-in. Try right-clicking the folder, properties, and Advanced. Click the checkbox for ''encrypt contents to secure data''.

XP Pro with the latest service pack also includes cipher.exe, which is a command line tool that can encrypt folders or files.

I'll note again, that strong encryption is absolute, lose your keys and your data is definately protected, even from yourself. There's much reading you need to do.

A good place to start is Microsoft:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/support/dataprot.mspx

deium

(NT) The Administrator can read all EFS files and folders

Secura backup looks good but not me and Paypal

In reply to: 9/9/05 Is it possible to password-protect files and folders? by Lee Koo (ADMIN) 

The Secura looks just the type of backup I would need. Then I saw that the purchase was tied to PAYPAL. Sorry Secura but my past experience with this ineffecient and intrusive organization was the worst. If there is another way to purchase this app I will gladly pay for it.

I use CD-Lock

In reply to: 9/9/05 Is it possible to password-protect files and folders? by Lee Koo (ADMIN) 

I use CD-Lock to protect my files, USB Drives and CD/DVD's. It uses a password and encrypts and scrambles files. You can't get to the information without your password. If you password is complicated enough, I doubt someone would be able to get your information.

securing files and folders

In reply to: 9/9/05 Is it possible to password-protect files and folders? by Lee Koo (ADMIN) 

good info bur the first part of the question is not answered. Is there a way to password protect files and folders on your computer? I would like to be able to do this wven though I have my own Id on my computer, there have been times when I have been called away suddenly and havent log off, anyone could veiw my files. So is there a way?

Backups are not the subject!

The original question was a request for a good file protection program. One that can also be used to protect burnt media, including backups.

Backups are NOT the subject, although it keeps veering in that direction.

I'm only jumping in because I'm also interested.

I've been trying to find a simple (and free) way to keep certain files locked, or hidden from the general public.
No extreme encryption, just something to keep kids from seeing grown-up material, and normal adults from viewing such things as receipts, tax forms, etc.

This is for a personal computer, and hackers would be wasting their time with what they find. Besides, I don't know any hackers.

I would love a simple program that password protects files of unlimited size. I gave up looking. Every one I tried was too complicated, or had a storage limit. Many try the usual trick of deception where they appear to be totally free until you install. That's when you are hit with some outlandish fee before you can proceed. I'm surprised they don't let you lock up some files and hold them hostage until you pay.

I would like to hear more on the simple and free.

Zip Programs

In reply to: 9/9/05 Is it possible to password-protect files and folders? by Lee Koo (ADMIN) 

I didn't get a chance to answer this earlier but here is what I consider to be the safest and easiest way password protect back-up files, or files on your computer.

Use any Compression software, I use WinZip. Zip the file into a zip file, add your password and then burn it to a CD or DVD. Also, be sure to install your copy of WinZip on that same CD or DVD. This way it's always with the protected files "and", you can install WinZip on another computer and simply extract the files wherever you want them after entering the password to extract or view the zipped files.