While Windows operating system makes it really easy to hide/unhide files and folders, it does not provide any option to password protect files and folders on your computer.
Hence, the only way to protect Files and Folders on a Windows 10/11 computer is to hide the File or Folder, unless you are using the Professional Edition of Windows, which also provides the option to Encrypt Files/Folders.
If you are using the Home Edition of Windows, there are a number of third-party tools and software programs that can be used to password protect files and folders on your computer.
Password Protect Folders in Windows Using Third Party Programs
Since, there are multiple third-party tools and programs that can password protect folders, we are providing below some of the better known third party tools/programs.
1. Protected Folder
Protected Folder can protect multiple Files and Folders on a Windows computer and it uses one master password for all of them.
It has an easy to use interface and makes it really easy to add folders that you want to protect. You can either click on the Add button or just drag and drop folders into the program.
The Protected Folder is free to use for up to 20 times, after which you will be required to pay $19.95 per year in order to keep using it.
2. Folder Lock Lite
Folder Lock Lite allows you to protect Files, Folders and also protect entire drives.
The program is easy to use and allows you to add as many Files, Folders and drives as you want to protect by just clicking a button or dragging and dropping folders.
Folder Lock Lite is free to use for up to 30 days, after which you will be required to make a onetime payment of $24.95 in order to use the application.
3. Folder Guard
Folder Guard has better features as it allows you to setup individual passwords for individual folders, instead of one master password. You can also assign specific access permissions for different user accounts on your computer.
Folder Guard is free to use during its 30-day trial period, after which you will be required to pay $39.95. The paid application can be installed on two computers, which makes it cost effective.
4. Folder Protector
Folder Protector is free to use but you will be required to pay a onetime fee of $24.95, in case you want to make use of its 256-bit encryption capability.
Using this tool is easy, just pick a Folder and set a Password, the program will then encrypt the folder and make an EXE to unlock the folder (with the password).
How to Encrypt Folders in Windows 10/11
If you are using the professional edition of Windows, you can encrypt a file or folder on your computer by following the steps below.
1. Right-click on the File/Folder and then click on Properties in the contextual menu.
2. On the Properties screen, make sure you are on the General tab and click on Advanced button.
3. Next, check the option for Encrypt contents to secure data.
4. Click on Apply and OK.
Note: If you are using the Home Edition of Windows, you may find “Encrypt contents to secure data” option greyed, missing or not selectable.