Encrypting folders in windows xp

Question

theres an option in every folder to encrypt contents. i clicked on it and thats all? the folder is highlighted green but thats about it. shouldnt it prompt me for a password so that the contents inside the folder cant be accessed?

Answer 1

Windows does not include built-in capability to password protect your files other than your user account which can be easily bypassed. You will also be required to make changes to security settings so other users cannot gain access which requires XP Professional or Vista Home Premium or better.

The easiest and most secure option would be to get encryption software. I recommend Truecrypt, which is a free program to password protect your files and folders. You are able to create an encrypted file of a size you specify which you are then able to mount to a virtual drive. You can also encrypt an entire drive.

Truecrypt is a free open-source disk encryption software for Windows Vista/XP/2000 and Linux. CNET gives Truecrypt a 5 star rating so you know this software won't disappoint you.

Answer 2

i don't know about any good ones for encrypting, but if you wanna keep files from someone else, you could just protect them in winRAR or something like that

Answer 3

Nope...

The only person that can open that file is you... when your logged on as you!  Or, someone hacks into your computer remotely with you logged on so they use your credentials to open!

Good luck getting your information back IF you loss your password though!  If you reset your password thru a mean other than CTRL ALT Delete, your in deep doodoo!

Try logging onto the computer as a different user and see if you can get in?

EDIT - WinRar encryption / password is a joke.  Truecrypt is a good answer.  I would look at getting an encrypted/secure thumb / USB drive.  That way your information is portable, but still protected.