Cr!ptAES

In times where security is no longer something that can offer complete protection, one still looks for methods of at least giving hackers a harder time accessing valuable data. A common security practice are passwords, but you can’t just add them to all files. As such, applications like Cr!ptAES got developed, just in case specific files or folders need to be protected at all costs.

On the visual side of things, the application keeps everything simple, and all features wrapped in a classic window style. The upper toolbar is fitted with most controls and options, a large area is used to display files you load, while process-related settings are all placed together in a separate section.

The neat thing is that you don’t have to target any specific file, because all of them are supported. These can be loaded by simply dragging them over the main window, or using the built-in dialogs to browse for files or entire folders.

As the name might suggest, the main process is based on AES encryption. A drop-down menu is put at your disposal to select from different bit versions of AES, as well as Blowfish or Serpent. Moreover, the application comes with a built-in password generator, in case you lack the inspiration for a security key.

However, you need to keep that generated password safe, because it’s the only way you can recover files. In this regard, there’s a quick function that sends it to the clipboard so you can paste it in a secure document, or even write it down on a piece of paper.

Apart from making files close to impossible to access, the application also has a few other tricks up its sleeve. These count as operations and the default one is set to automatic detection. In other words, you can let the program decide whether the file needs to be encrypted or decrypted, manually override, fingerprint files, shred them, or just count and show corresponding details.

It’s quick and easy to set up the application. One thing you need to keep in mind though, is that it can’t properly run without .NET Framework, so go ahead and install it if you haven’t already. Moreover, encrypted files require the application to be installed, because Windows doesn’t recognize the specific encrypted format.

To sum it up, Cr!ptAES manages to live up to expectations, proving that it’s possible for a lightweight application to get the job done as intended. Getting accustomed to the set of features is a walk in the park thanks to the simple design, while the features put at your disposal let you secure, unlock, and even permanently remove all traces from the computer, just to make sure you’re on the safe side.