If you have a single computer at your home or hostel room and you are sharing it without your siblings or roommates then it will be a big problem for you to secure your personal data from other users. In a similar way, if you want to send files of high importance to your boss through email but you think that an unauthorized person can get your files then it will be also a big problem for you. But you can secure your files and folders with the help of file encryption programs. Encryption is a method of encoding information so that no can access your information unless he has the right key to decode it. The encryption method is used to secure highly sensitive files, however, it is a good way to prevent other users from looking at your personal stuff. Here is the list of Best Free file encryption Tools that enable you to protect your personal files and folders using password protection. All applications are using different algorithms for file encryption. In addition to file encryption, some of these programs have the possibility to encrypt text information.
1. Cryptography Studio
Cryptography Studio is an efficient file encryption program that can help you to secure your files with the help of powerful encryption algorithms. Cryptography Studio is a portable program so you can work with it without installation. The user interface of Cryptography Studio is quite simple and minimalistic which enables you to upload files into the working environment with the help of built-in browse function. You have the possibility to select the hash type like SHA-1, SHA-384, SHA-256, or SHA-512, select the password strength, and insert the password. In addition, you can save the encrypted files to the same location as the original one. It provides you the option to decipher the encrypted files by performing the same steps included in the encryption procedure. Cryptography Studio does not eat up a lot of RAM and CPU and does not affect the overall performance.
2. Cypher Bot
Cypher Bot is a lightweight program that can help you to add extra security to either large text strings or whole files with the help of a powerful encryption algorithm. You should have a .NET Framework installed on your system if you want to work this application. This application has the possibility to encrypt both files and text. Algorithm for encrypting files is also based on a keyword, and you have to use a couple of browse dialogs to define the source file and destination. It has a built in email system which requires a custom account which can help you if you want to send encrypted emails for enhanced security. Plus, you can run the program in stealth mode, and select to clear custom fields after tasks completion. Overall, Cypher Bot is the best solution for securing your files and text messages.
3. File Encryption / Decryption
File Encryption / Decryption is a straightforward encryption program that allows the user to encrypt files and folders with the help of cryptographic hash functions. The program offers support for SHA-1, SHA-384, SHA-256, and SHA-512. It is a portable program so you can run it without installation. The UI of File Encryption / Decryption has a pretty cluttered and outdated design containing multiple buttons and boxes, text and radio buttons. It enables you to encrypt and decrypt files utilizing hash functions and predefined settings. Moreover, it provides you five different options like password phrases, password phrase strength, initial vector, salt values, and file encryption and decryption type. The program facilitates you to encrypt or decrypt text with the help of same SHA cryptographic hash functions, as well as symbols, binary, RSA and MD5 algorithms. After doing this, you can paste the resultant text body anywhere you want.
4. Conceal Folder
Conceal Folder is a reliable and handy software program that permits you to hide and encrypt folders. So you can secure the privacy of your folders by hiding them from user’s sight. It provides you the opportunity to lock or unlock a specify directory. The application offers double protection for your private folders: by locking the folder, thus hide it from other users who want to access it. The second method of security is password protection. When you launch the program for the first time, it asks you to set a password, in order to restrict other users to get access to its interface. When you will add folders to the processing list, you have to provide the preset password every time you try to open it. You have the option to change the password as well as you can set a hint, in case you have forget the password. You can add or remove folders from the list with a simple click.
5. Chaos Mash
Chaos Mash is a handy and simple software program that furnishes you the facility to encrypt files using a password. You have the option to encrypt files with the help of three security algorithms and 15 hash types for each mode of encryption. You can do this by specifying a secret password for decryption. Chaos Mash has a user-friendly interface along with a large window that shows all present options, allowing you to study them before starting the task. For encryption, add files to the interface using the file browser, create the saving directory and name of the new encrypted item, insert your password and select the hash type and methods such as Method A, Method B or Blowfish. You have to remember the extension of the original file because the encryption method develops a file containing an unknown extension.
6. Silver Key Free Edition
Silver Key Free Edition is a handy and user-friendly software application that can help you to easily create self-extracting encrypted files and folders. So you can send your data over the Internet in a secure way. The program has a clean feature lineup where you can carry out most of the encryption operations with minimal effort. It provides three different encryption methods for creating different types of cyphered parcels. You can create self-extracting files for running the package on any Windows system, create a standard parcel that have the encrypted data which can be decoded using the application, or you an attachment parcel that facilitates you to hide sensitive information into innocent looking files. Moreover, you have the possibility to create EXE parcels by obfuscate small parcels, shred source files at the end of the task, verify the files at the end of the encryption process, set up password and keys, as well as input digital signature.
7. Palcrypt
Palcrypt is a lightweight encryption program that allows you to secure important files by encrypting them using IDEA, SHA1, Blowfish, or MD5 algorithms. At launch, you can view a regular open dialog where you can choose the file you need to encrypt. Plus, you can utilize the context menu option on target files to encrypt them faster. After selecting files, it displays a small window where you can configure encryption parameters. The program replaces the original file with the encrypted data. In addition, the application offers a dedicated option to have a backup created automatically. If you try to decrypt the file with an incorrect password, it creates a dummy file which can’t be accessed. Overall, it is a personal file encrypted which can help you to keep sensible data away from prying eyes.
8. SecureCrypt Ultimate Edition
SecureCrypt Ultimate Edition is one of the best file encryption software applications. This program offers guaranteed protection from unauthorized users. It provides guarantee protection utilizing up to date encryption and decryption technologies, sleek UI, a newly constructed user interaction system, and a completely user-friendly experience. The application furnishes you the easiest, fastest, and the best encryption alternative free of cost. This safe and easy encryption application program can keep your all information away from prying eyes. With the help of SecureCrypt Ultimate Edition you can secure your files or text data into unreadable information, and then decrypt them for viewing by first inserting any custom password. SecureCrypt Ultimate Edition does not put a strain on computer resources and has a fast response time.
9. PicoCrypt
PicoCrypt is a small and handy software program that can help the user to encrypt his files and folders with the help of Blowfish encryption algorithm in CBC mode. This program is easy to use and provide support for multiple drags and drop option. PicoCrypt is a portable program, so you can place it anywhere on the hard disk and use it without installation. The application is designed for those who want to secure their files and folders on their system or want to transfer them over the Internet with the aid of unsecured channel. The program utilizes a 128 bits key that is the MD5 message digest of the user password. The interface of PicoCrypt is clean and simplistic which enables you to work in the clean environment.
10. BCArchive
BCArchive is a straightforward software program that allows you to create password protected archives containing sensitive information. So you can safely send data to your friends or colleagues. The interface of BCArchive is clean well-structured containing a menu bar, a folder structure, a few buttons, and a pane to show details. It has a help manual, so you can learn how to handle it at its full potential. You can select a password-based encryption method or public key one, and both of these methods offer support for a long list of algorithms. You have the option to utilize key algorithms, like CASTS, IDEAS, GOST, Blowfish, and RIJNDAEL as well as MD, SHA or RIPEMD hash. After configuring all the necessary options, you can upload all files and folders you need to protect, with the help of a file browser or the drag and drop method. All these items will be shown in the primary windows along with details like name, ratio, size, attributes, type, and modified time.
11. Free File Encrypter
Free File Encrypter is a file encryption software program that facilitates the user to encrypt confidential files for security by setting a cipher, hash, and password. You have the facility to assign a password to your files, along with a hash and cipher. The interface of Free File Encrypter is intuitive with a single window, displaying everything it has to provide in plain sight. But this program does not provide you the option to password protect multiple files and folders at the same time. For encryption, search the computer for the files you want to encrypt, provide the destination directory and name of the new encrypted files, specify the hash and cipher, insert and confirm passphrase, and then push “Encrypt” button for the quick process. The cipher options in this program are DES, Cast128, Ice, RC4, Ice4, RC2, RCE4, Tea, Rijndael, Thin Ice, Serpent, and Twofish.
12. S.S.E. File Encryptor
S.S.E. File Encryptor is a straightforward software program that enables you to encrypt your files and folders using Twofish, Serpent, Blowfish, or GOST28147 algorithms. This program provides you the surety that your private documents will remain confidential. You can simply start the process by dragging the desired items in a large enough box. After the process starts automatically and the output files are saved in the same folder as the original. Before using the primary functions, you have to set a security key. You have the option to set a different security key for every file you want to encrypt. For boost up protection, you have to enter the password every time you launch this program. The application offers 7 encryption algorithms for an extra layer of security. Overall, S.S.E. File Encryptor is a simple solution to provide surety that no can access your files.
13. Advanced File Encryption Pro
Advanced File Encryption Pro is a simple file encryption program that allows the user to encrypt important files and folders. The application adds an extra layer of security over your files using few steps. Advanced File Encryption Pro has a modern interface where you can encrypt files using a series of easy steps. It provides you the opportunity to drag as many files and folders you like over the primary window. After that, specify the destination and a handful of settings that not compulsory. It provides the additional option to provide a decent amount of advanced settings referring to compression, cryptography, passwords, and deletion. The program offers an abundance of algorithms, cipher modes, key generators, and padding scheme. Compression is also part of it with more than five levels and even the option to split the result into custom sized volumes. If you are configuring the algorithm, you have to provide a way to lock and later on access content.
14. Rijndael File Encryption Decryption Tool
Rijndael File Encryption Decryption Tool is a simple and handy file encryption software program which can encrypt, decrypt any file or folder. This program based upon Rijndael cryptography algorithm. It is a portable software, so you can work with it without installation as well as you can place it anywhere on the computer. Just double click and run the application. It provides the fastest way of encrypting and decrypting files and folders. The interface of Rijndael File Encryption Decryption Tool is simple and intuitive where you can encrypt files quickly.
15. SmartEncryptor
SmartEncryptor is a straightforward software program that enables you to encrypt files and folders, and stop other users from reading your personal files. The application contains many handy options that can easily figure out, even by less experienced users. The interface of SmartEncryptor has a normal window with a neatly organized structure. You can access two panels separately to encrypt and decrypt files and folders, respectively. You can add items to the process with the help of the browser or use drag and drop method. Only you have to provide a password and confirm it, specify a new file name and location, and push a button to encrypt it immediately. The program does not add password protection to the original file but creates a new one. For encrypting the files, you have to point out the file, new directory, and password. You can enable the program to wipe the source file and create self-extracting files automatically. You can choose the encryption method between Blowfish and AES, create a shell extension to quickly encrypt files.
16. Crypt4Free
Crypt4Free is a simple to user and intuitive program that facilitates you to encrypt information by setting up a password and selecting the algorithm. Crypt4Free has a clean and intuitive interface that provides quick access to the folders and files present in the system. you can start the encryption operation by specifying the password, inserting riddles, picking an algorithm, and choosing the saving directory. Moreover, you can delete the original files after encrypting them. Other important features help you to create ZIP archives or extract the archived files, and remove sensitive information from the system in a secure way. In addition, the program allows you to keep the data stamp for the encrypted files, mark encrypted files as hidden, sort files by extension, show system, and hidden items, as well as create a list with file formats to be excluded from the compression process. You have the facility to encrypt the data present in the program, log all events to a plain text file, and play sound notifications at the end of the process.
17. SEncrypt
SEncrypt is a high-level encryption and decryption software program that facilitates you to encrypt or decrypt files or text. Moreover, you can use this program to delete files permanently. The interface of SEncrypt is simple and user-friendly which helps to distribute high-level encryption text or files safely, to any recipient. Moreover, you can easily decrypt a file or text, encrypted with SEncrypt by providing the accurate password. For an encrypting file, you have to add files to the interface, then provide a password and output directory for encrypted files. SEncrypt provides an extra layer to the files of folders on your system. SEncrypt has quick response time and does not put a strain on computer resources.
18. ABI- CODER
ABI- CODER is a comprehensive software program that can encrypt files with the help of the 448 bit Blowfish, 256 bit AES, or 168-bit 3DES algorithm. The primary purpose of this program is to help you encrypt your sensitive files using some powerful algorithms. The plain layout of ABI- CODER provides you access to the files and folders stored in your system, you can easily choose the item that you want to encrypt. Moreover, the program provides extra information about each file and folder just like the name, attributes, size, and date when it last modified. Multiple basic file management features help you to open folders and view files, copy the filename to the clipboard, send items to a user-defined folder, rename or delete items, create a desktop shortcut, check out file properties, and create a new folder. It provides you the facility to show or hide the password characters, overwrites the existing files, checks out the strength of your password through the built-in progress bar, and process all files included in a folder.
19. AS-File Crypt
AS-File Crypt is a handy and simple software application that allows you to protect your files and folders easily. This program has the facility to encrypt files with the help of encryption algorithms such as AES or Blowfish with a 128 or 256 bits key. You can enable the program to destroy the original file after encryption. This application utilizes its own advanced key strengthening algorithms which delay the final encryption key for 5 to 30 seconds to increase the security. AS-File Crypt adds an extra layer of security to your important files and folders. The interface of AS-File Crypt is simplistic intuitive where you can work smoothly. AS-File Crypt uses a low amount of system resources.
20. Omziff
Omziff is a lightweight encryption program that offers many cryptography algorithms to encrypt and decrypt textual files. The program prevents unauthorized users from accessing your files, by securing them using a password. It is a portable program so you can save it anywhere on the hard drive and run it immediately. The interface of Omziff has a standard window with an uncomplicated layout where you can open a file by using the file browser, however, drag and drop option is not a part of it. After specifying the output directory, file name, password, and algorithm, you can start the encryption process. Moreover, you can create a random password and choose options and a total number of characters. Using additional features of Omziff, you can shred files beyond recovery, create a file hash, split and merge files, generate a random number, make decoy files, and append files.
21. Zero Footprint Crypt
Zero Footprint Crypt is a lightweight software application which enables you to encrypt your files with the help of powerful Blowfish algorithm. It contains a built-in viewer for movies, images, and also supports MP3 tags. It provides you a unique way to see encrypted picture files without decrypting them to a file. Plus, you can wipe them from your disk, with the help of multiple overwrites and do some basic photo editing. It is a freeware program and you can use it for unlimited files and unlimited file size. This program enables the user for the continuing development and support of the application. The user interface of Zero Footprint Crypt is very straightforward and provides you the ability to start encrypting data within minutes. So you can choose from size encryption algorithms like Blowfish, Serpent, Twofish, RC4, Rijndael, and 3DES. It provides thumbnail images of directories for a quick view.
22. PixelCryptor
PixelCryptor is a comprehensive software program that enables the user to hide files and folders into a user-defined image like GIF, BMP, TIFF, PNG, or JPG. It is best for those who want to save files and folders inside images. PixelCryptorb has an intuitive design that facilitates you to activate the encryption and decryption task using simple clicks. It contains a help manual where you can check out more about the application’s capabilities. You can start the encryption and decryption process with the help of wizard-like approach. You have the facility to build up a list of the files that you need to encode. You can add files to the working environment using drag and drop option or with the help of a built-in browser. It furnishes you the possibility to add folders, remove items from the encrypted package and create new directories. You can enable the program to delete source files and folders at the end of the encoding process.
23. Cryptkeeper
Cryptkeeper is a comprehensive software application that facilitates the user to protect important files with the help of different encryption algorithms. Moreover, you have the facility to hash files and transform text using this simple program. Cryptkeeper is a portable program so you can store it on a USBS Flash drive. Cryptkeeper has a poor interface, however, the Matrix style colors and background make it quick easier. The primary window facilitates you to access all areas it covers. You can hash files using different algorithms like variations of SHA, MD5, as well as CRC. You can start the process by dragging the target files over the primary window, the results will be shown in a small field so that you can copy and use them in other projects. It provides you the opportunity to add an extra layer of protection over the program’s set of features. You have to add a custom user and password at each launch so only you have access.
24. EncryptOnClick
EncryptOnClick is a straightforward software application that enables the user to encrypt and decrypt any file or folder with the help of well-known and virtually impenetrable 256-bit AES algorithms. EncryptOnClick has a simple interface that is easy to handle. The application can easily work with both individual folders and files that are under password. For encrypting files, you can simply browse for it through the directories on the system. You have to insert a password and to retype it for adding security. When you need to remove the encryption from a folder or file, simply browse for that specific item. After loading the encrypted files, you have to provide the password of the file before processing it. It is helpful for the protecting files that contain confidential or sensitive data just like financial information or other similar documents. After encryption, you can send files safely to other individuals through emails or other methods.
25. Bitlocker
Bitlocker is one of the best disk and file encryption software applications which enables you to lock your disks and drives. The program has the ability to encrypt full volumes with the help of AES-256 and can leverage TPM modules, boot PINs, two-factor authentications, and so on. You can apply it to the operating system volume, other volumes individually, or to all volumes of the system. Furthermore, you can store all the recovery keys in Active Directory. So, it is a good program for those who want to ensure the company never loses access to encrypted files. The interface of Bitlocker is simple and handy to use which facilitates you to work in the clean environment.
26. Encoding Decoding Free
Encoding Decoding Free is a portable and handy program that offers five encryption methods for protecting private files. It is a portable program so save it to a USB flash disk or similar storage unit. The interface of Encoding Decoding Free is user-friendly containing a standard window with an uncomplicated structure where you can insert files for encryption process using drag and drop method or the file browser option. It provides six encoding methods such as Standard, Ultra 3 and AES 128-bit, Ultra, 192-bit, and 256-bit. The program creates the password protected a file in the same directory as the original item. The program carries out encryption and decryption process rapidly and consumes low system resources. In addition, the program offers support for multiple languages.
27. Emsa EZ Encryption Tool
Emsa EZ Encryption Tool is a straightforward encryption application for Windows. This application utilizes the Blowfish algorithm to encrypt files or text chunks. The Blowfish is a strong encryption algorithm using a private key, so your data is safe from prying eyes. To encrypt files, you have to first click on the ‘Encrypt File’ button which will choose input plain file and the path to save the output encrypted file. To decrypt data, you have to push the ‘Decrypt File’ button which will choose the input encrypted the file and the path to save the output files. To encrypt text, you have to copy the input text into the top textbox, then push the ‘Encrypt & Encode Text’ button, the text will be encrypted. It encodes the resulting text with the help of standard Base64 encoding because the result of encryption is present in binary data, not in text format.
28. File Secure Free
File Secure Free is a comprehensive software program that can help you to encrypt, backup, or delete folders and files securely. In addition, you can lock flash drives. The program contains a clean lineup of functions, where you can enable each mode from its own dedicated panels such as File Backup, File Shredder, File Encryptor, and Lockup. You can add files and folders to the working environment with the help of built-in browse button, however, drag and drop option is not a part of this program. It provides you the possibility to create backups of your important information, so if some malicious applications make different changes to your system, you can easily restore data. With the help of backup process, you can secure items and directories by setting up passwords. In addition, you can decrypt the data by adding the backup files and providing the target location. The program uses the AES algorithm for encrypting personal data and facilitates you to encrypt files and directories as well.
29. Secure File Vault
Secure File Vault is a simple and handy software application which enables you to protect your files easily. The application contains many encryption tools and the option to manage favorite files. The interface of Secure File Vault is modern and intuitive graphical, providing many neat tools at hand. This application utilizes 128-bit encryption to keep your files secure and protected from unauthorized users. You have to create a master password for accessing the program. However, the application does not contain any password retrieval tool. It provides the option to lock different files and folders on your system and unlock them from inside the program. You have the facility to insert specific files to the security vault, these files will be moved from their original path. Moreover, you can create a list containing your favorite websites, just input the links that you would like to save. You can open the website in your default browser by double clicking on one link. With the help of a password wallet, you can store all usernames and passwords in one single place.
30. Advanced File Vault
Advanced File Vault is a simple and reliable software application which enables the user to hide or protect any file instantly. Now the user has the facility to hide or password-protect any file instantly by clicking on it. The application works with all file types such as pictures and movies. When you lock or hide a file, it is completely encrypted and no one can view its contents. To lock a file or folder, only you have to right-click on it and select the lock option. The application is extremely easy to use and you can also get online help from its official site. Advanced File Vault is offering some interested tools such as easy-to-use interface, lock, encrypt, hide any file with a few clicks and military-grade encryption.
31. Sophos Free Encryption
Sophos Free Encryption is a lightweight application that enables you to protect your data quickly and easily. It is an intuitive application to protect sensitive data from unauthorized viewing. The interface of Sophos Free Encryption has a standard window with an intuitive layout which allows you to add files into the secure environment with the help of file browser, folder view or “drag and drop” method. For encrypting data, you can specify a target for the archive using Sophos Free Encryption format (UTI) and set a password to it. However, you can apply a key file as a dependency. It contains few options for the encryption process which facilitates the user to create self-extracting files, compress data and save passwords in a history list. Furthermore, he can send the encrypted archives using the default email client and change the default file path to the passwords history list.
32. AxCrypt
AxCrypt is a file encryption software application that utilizes the AES algorithm with 128-bit keys. This application enables you to encrypt files and folders easily. It is an essential application if you are sharing your computer with many users and want to secure your personal files. It enables you to encrypt files by putting a password and a keyfile and set AxCrypt to remember this for decryption. Further, you have the option to encrypt a copy of a file and convert it to the EXE format optionally, create a key-file, clear the password memory, as well as shred and delete a file. The application can take a long time for encryption process but uses a very low amount of system resources. It does not support drive encryption and has no help file for users.
33. Challenger
Challenger is an easy-to-use encryption software which allows the user to encrypt arbitrary files or folders. The application has a simple design and its primary window is intuitive with few necessary options. To work with Challenger, you have to remember a specific phrase that you input to access your private files. You can’t use your files if you have lost the given words. The application provides you the maximum efficiency by the deleting the original files and they become again available only by decrypting them. The application primary window has a small area where the user can drop files to start encrypting faster. Overall, Challenger is a worthy utility that is useful for keeping files safe and secure.
34. DiskCryptor
DiskCryptor is an extensive software application which provides you options for protecting hard disks with the help of encryption or key files. This comprehensive utility gives the facility of protecting disks with a password or a key file to prevent other people from getting important information, copying, editing or deleting files. The application has a fast and easy installation process that requires a computer restart to finish. The intuitive interface of DiskCryptor contains a regular window with a simple structure. The window contains a list of all disk drives and you can check out their size, type, label, and status. To apply encryption, you have to specify a wipe mode and algorithm, after which you have the facility to assign a password and select the keyboard language. Further, you can mount or unmounts all drives, clear cached passwords, remove the program drives, run an encryption benchmark, configure the boot loader, and backup and restore the header.
35. AES Crypt
AES Crypt is a simple and handy application that has the ability to encrypt and decrypt files through the secure AES algorithm in order to protect confidential data. The application provides you a convenient method to encrypt files and to prevent other users from viewing your private data. It has integration with the Windows Explorer shell extension which allows you to quickly encrypt files. Due to this, the application pops up a small window which asks you to specify a password and then confirm it. Importing thing is that AES Crypt cannot be asked to password-protect many chosen files, but only one at a time. The application creates a copy of the file and places it in the same location as the original item with .aes extension. So, you can delete or backup the original file to external disk. While the encrypted copy will remain on the local hard drive.
36. Steg
Steg is a small software encryption program which enables the user to hide private files and user-defined messages inside photos and decrypt the concealed info through the tool’s interface. The application has specialization in hiding data inside images. You can open the encrypted photos which will act as normal photos. Steg has a well-structured suite of features. You can add photos in the working environment through the built-in browse button and you can rely on tooltips for seeing short descriptions about the functions of the program. The software can work with multiple image formats such as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and BMP. Further, you have the facility to check out a preview of the original and modified files using the dual display mode. The application enables you to zoom in or out of pictures, view information about each picture and make the window fit the screen.
37. Our Secret
Our Secret is a lightweight and reliable software application which enables you to hide your secret into other files. It is a simple but powerful program having the aim to help you secure a file or message. The application contains a clean and intuitive interface and individuals can easily use it with any experience level. You have the facility to set the password and press the “Hide” button to save the file to a new location and with another name. For the revealing process, you have to choose the file, input the password and press the “Unhide” button. Further, you can view and save the messages within the interface. The application works on a low quality of system resources and quickly finishes a task. Overall, Our Secret is a brilliant application for hiding private information and files.
38. OpenPuff
OpenPuff is a handy and reliable software application that facilitates the user to hide data into encrypted files if you want to send to other users. The application uses the principles of steganography to hide the information into regular files just like images, audio or video files. You can carry private files using emails, removable devices or other storage devices. The software has the aim to protect both the messages and the persons that are exchanging the messages. You have the facility to use the software for concealing text images or other files with a maximum size of 256 MB. The application is lightweight and helps you to send encrypted messages to your business partners or friends.
