Folder Lock for Windows

Folder Lock 10.1.14 is a file protection program for Windows from Newsoftwares.net. You download Folder Lock to hide and password-protect private folders on a shared PC, or to keep sensitive documents in encrypted lockers that stay unreadable even if the laptop is stolen.

Quick facts

• Version: 10.1.14
• Developer: Newsoftwares.net
• System: Windows
• Licence: trial (demo), paid full version
• Size: about 8.67 MB according to catalogue data
• Website: newsoftwares.net

What it does

Folder Lock combines two kinds of protection. Locking hides a folder and blocks access to it until you enter the master password; this is quick and convenient on a family computer, but it is not encryption, so the data itself is unchanged. For stronger protection, the program creates lockers: encrypted containers that open as a drive when you unlock them and become unreadable files when closed. Everything you put in a locker is encrypted on the fly. Beyond that, Folder Lock can shred files and wipe free space so deleted data cannot be recovered, protect USB drives and CDs with portable lockers, keep wallets for card numbers and other personal notes, and back up lockers to its own cloud service. A stealth mode hides the program itself, and a hacker-attempt monitor records failed password tries. The what's new page lists changes in each version.

Getting started

1. Download the installer from the official Folder Lock website and run it.
2. Set a strong master password and store it safely; there is no easy recovery.
3. Drag folders into the Lock Files section for quick hiding.
4. Create a locker for sensitive documents and move them inside.
5. Close the locker when you finish working.

Requirements

A Windows PC with enough free disk space for the lockers you create. Portable lockers need a USB drive or other removable media.

Security advice

Use lockers, not simple locking, for truly confidential data. Keep backups of important lockers, because a forgotten password or a damaged container can mean losing everything inside. Download only from the official site; cracked versions of security software defeat the whole purpose.

Tips

Create separate lockers for different kinds of data, for example work documents and personal scans, so you only open what you need. Close lockers before putting the PC to sleep, and check that your backup copies of lockers open correctly from time to time.

Price

The trial lets you test the program with limits; the full version is a paid licence. Current prices are on the developer's site.

Pros and cons

• Pro: quick folder locking for shared PCs.
• Pro: encrypted lockers and portable lockers.
• Pro: file shredder included.
• Con: full features require payment.
• Con: simple locking is not encryption.
• Con: losing the master password is serious.

Alternatives

For password storage, RoboForm on our site is a dedicated manager. For file management with built-in archive encryption, Total Commander is another option.