FolderEncrypt

In case multiple individuals are using your computer, it’s a good idea to keep your own info safe. This can be done in a variety of ways, with an abundance of third-party alternatives just like FolderEncrypt, which enables you to make the content of an entire folder impossible to reach.

For starters, you need to install Java Runtime Environment on your computer if it’s not already there, because it’s a mandatory requirement for functionality. This also means that it doesn’t really depend on the Windows operating system to work, and since there’s no setup involved, you can easily carry it around on a thumb drive.

The overall operation is pretty straightforward, but this doesn’t mean it doesn’t live up to expectations. A couple of fields need to be filled in, and there’s a large log section to show any potential errors, or how the operation goes. You don’t have to wait much time for the target folder to get encrypted.

You’re asked to specify the source folder you want to encrypt, as well as a destination. Note, however, that the destination needs to be an existing folder, because the application doesn’t create one, even if you write it down in the destination path.

The target folder gets encrypted at the press of a button, and decryption goes the same way. Unfortunately, this still leaves your files somewhat vulnerable, because the algorithm or the application itself doesn’t rely on a password, so anyone can attempt to decrypt your folders if running the program. In this regard, it’s a good idea to always keep it on a personal USB flash drive.

Bottom line is that FolderEncrypt offers a pretty straightforward method of securing the content of personal folders. Some degree of attention is required though, or you might leave the program in plain sight, and anyone accessing it can decrypt your folders without any prompts.