File and Folder Encryption

The first step in implementing file and folder encryption is to figure out what really needs to be encrypted.

There are many, many files on our hard drives that simply aren't all that special, unique, or sensitive. They just don't need to be encrypted!

For example, it's sort of silly to encrypt your copy of Notepad, Paint, Calculator, Solitaire, or any of the other system files (.exe, .msc, .dll, and so forth) that came with your original Windows setup. Most of Windows' core operating system files are similar from system to system, varying only by Windows version and local hardware. They typically don't contain any sensitive information. So it's wasted effort to encrypt them (as they would be with whole-disk encryption).

Most add-on software doesn't need encryption, either. Your copy of Word, Excel, Skype, Photoshop, or whatever is, for the most part, like any other.

That also holds true for files you acquire through public sources. Your "Dead Skunk" MP3 and that downloaded "National Lampoon's Vacation" video are likely identical to everyone else's. What's to be gained by encryption? Even your digital photographs probably don't contain anything truly sensitive.

On the other hand, many of the files you create — within Word, Excel, or other applications — could contain sensitive information. Those are the files that need protection and should be encrypted!

In most cases, securing potentially sensitive information means selecting specific files and folders. For example, you probably don't need to encrypt your Music folder, but you almost surely want to protect Documents and its subfolders — plus any other locations that might have information you want to keep private. Consider reorganizing your documents into sensitive and nonsensitive folders. You most likely don't need to encrypt your collection of old family recipes.

Once you've decided what you need to encrypt, make a full system image or backup. Or at least make separate backup copies of the files you intend to encrypt. Although file-and-folder encryption tools are usually extremely reliable, accidents and user errors can happen. So it's best to play it safe — make backups!

Next, download and install the file/folder encryption tool of your choice. A quick Web search will produce numerous options. I use 7-Zip for this article because — again — it's reliable, well regarded, open-source, and free for both personal and business use. More info