If you are using the Windows 10 operating system, which is widely used on many computers, or the MacOS operating system used in Apple’s Mac computers, the folder encryption process is extremely easy. Because in these operating systems, you do not need to use third-party software or perform complex operations for folder encryption. There are only a few simple steps you need to follow.
Of course, programless folder encryption does not provide a high level of security on these operating systems. On mostly common computers, it ensures that these folders and files are not seen since they are logged in by a different user. However, let’s say it’s better than nothing and let’s explain step by step how to do folder encryption on Windows 10 and MacOS.
How to encrypt folder in Windows 10?
- Step #1: Right click on the folder you want to encrypt.
- Step #2: Click on Properties.
- Step #3: Click the Advanced button under the General tab.
- Step #4: Confirm the Encrypt Content to Protect Data option.
- Step #5: Click the OK button.
- Step #6: Click the Apply button.
- Step #7: You’re done.
Just follow these steps for folder encryption in Windows 10. This process does not offer extensive protection. It enables the encrypted folder to be seen by the encrypting user only on shared computers. E.g; If the folder is encrypted by user1, user2 sees the contents of this folder as incomprehensible texts when he logs in.
Another important point you should know is that this process does not apply to all versions of Windows. You cannot do this in Windows 8 and Windows 10 Home version, it is only valid in Windows 10 version. We don’t know why, but Microsoft has made it clear on their Support page.
There is no limit for folder encryption in Windows 10. If you wish, you can encrypt all the folders stored on your computer. However, you can have a much more organized user experience by collecting such important files and folders under a single folder instead.
How to encrypt folder on macOS?
- Step #1: Open Disk Utility / Disk Utility.
- Step #2: Open the File tab.
- Step #3: Click New Image and then Image from Folder.
- Step #4: Select the folder you want to encrypt.
- Step #5: Give a new name and specify encryption details.
- Step #6: Click the Save button.
- Step #7: You’re done.
Just follow these steps for folder encryption on macOS. After the process, the encrypted folder will be saved as a new folder. If you wish, you can delete the folder that you have not encrypted. This folder cannot be opened by another user without entering the password you have set.
How to encrypt files on macOS?
- For notes;
- Step #1: Open the Notes app.
- Step #2: Open the note you want to encrypt.
- Step #3: Click on the lock icon and then on Lock Note.
- Step #4: Enter encryption details.
- For PDF files;
- Step #5: Open the PDF file you want to encrypt in preview.
- Step #6: Click on File and then Export.
- Step #7: Confirm the Encrypt option and enter the encryption details.
- For Pages, Keynote and Numbers files;
- Step #8: Open the file you want to encrypt.
- Step #9: Click on File and then Set Password.
- Step #10: Enter encryption details.
- Step #11: You’re done.
In the macOS operating system, instead of encrypting a general folder, it is also possible to encrypt some files that contain sensitive information one by one. You may want to make a note of your password, as no one who does not know the password will be able to open these files after the encryption process.
Programs you can use for folder encryption on Windows and MacOS:
- Gilisoft File Lock Pro
- Folder Lock
- BCArchive
- Folder Protector
- Secret Disk
Leave no traces behind: Gilisoft File Lock Pro
The Gilisoft File Lock Pro program, which you can use in both Windows and MacOS operating systems, successfully encrypts your folders and hides them from unwanted guests. Thanks to the File Shredder feature, it is possible to destroy all traces of you after you have finished your work on a shared computer.
Access all your encrypted files in one place: Folder Lock
Folder Lock, one of the most popular folder encryption programs running on Windows, Android, iOS operating systems, uses 256-bit AES technology. You can access the encrypted files on different devices through the same program. At the same time, it is possible to encrypt the folders in your external memory with Folder Lock.
You can share encrypted: BCArchive
The files you encrypt with BCArchive running on the Windows operating system are saved deep on your hard disk. You can share the folders that you have encrypted through the program with other users via e-mail. The users you share with will never be able to open the file you shared without knowing the password.
A different and effective method: Folder Protector
The working principle of the Folder Protector program, which you can use in the Windows operating system, is slightly different. your program. You can perform the encryption process by adding the exe file to the folder you want to encrypt. With Folder Protector, it is also possible to encrypt files and folders in your external memory.
Create a hidden hard disk: Secret Disk
Running on the Windows operating system, Secret Disk offers much more than a folder encryption program. With this program, it is possible to encrypt your entire hard disk. You can even create an additional hard disk with Secret Disk if you wish, and make sure that no one but you can access this disk.
We answered the question of how to encrypt folders on Windows and MacOS and talked about third-party software you can use. Let us remind you again that, although unprogrammed encryption methods are useful, they do not fully offer a high level of security.
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