We explain the steps you must take and what tools you have to install on your computer to protect a ZIP file with a password.
ZIP files are still very present in the day to day of many users. And it’s normal. It is a compression system that is highly compatible with all types of devices, integrated into most operating systems. Also, zipped folders are the ideal way to combine several files into one. But, when it comes to sensitive information, it’s normal to wonder how to password protect a ZIP file .
How could it be otherwise, in this article we give you all the answers to this question. First, we explain what are the steps you must take to protect a ZIP file with a password . Then, we show you some programs that will allow you to do it, and finally, we leave you with some useful resources for you to discover more details about ZIP files. Let’s start!
Index of contents
- How to protect a ZIP file with a password step by step
- Password protect a ZIP file with 7-ZIP
- Best applications to protect a ZIP file with a password
- WinZIP
- 8-ZIP
- WinRAR
- PeaZIP
- Protect a ZIP file with a password and much more
How to protect a ZIP file with a password step by step
Although Windows includes support for ZIP files, allowing you to compress and decompress these kinds of files, it does not allow you to add a password to protect the content. Therefore, it is best that you download a specialized application called 7-ZIP.
From our point of view, this is one of the most versatile tools for managing compressed files. And not only in ZIP format , but it will help you compress in all these extensions: 7z, XZ, BZIP2, GZIP, TAR, ZIP and WIM . Go to its official page to download the installer .
Although we are going to follow the steps from Windows, 7-ZIP is available on other systems and includes functions such as password-protecting a ZIP. Let’s see how to do it.
Password protect a ZIP file with 7-ZIP
Open 7-ZIP to get started and navigate through the file explorer until you locate the items you want to compress. Select them and, in the context menu, choose the 7-ZIP option and then Add to archive .
In the format selector, choose the ZIP option .
Next, look at the Encryption section that is located on the right side of the window. There you can write the password that will protect your files inside the ZIP.
Apply other settings if necessary and click OK when you’re done. Now when you try to open the ZIP file from a compatible application, you will be prompted for a password. That is, this key is not only valid in the application that created it, 7-ZIP, but in any decompression tool . Without going any further, when trying to open it with the file explorer, this happens:
The password, how could it be otherwise, is the one you entered during the encryption process.
It’s that simple to password protect a ZIP file . Thanks to this powerful free software, you will be able to keep your confidential information safe. However, it is not the only application that allows you to encrypt documents and files. Let’s take a look at some very interesting alternatives.
Best applications to protect a ZIP file with a password
This list is based on the article Best file compressors , in which we explain which are, from our point of view, the most interesting options on the market as far as file compression and decompression are concerned. Here’s a summary.
WinZIP
WinZIP is one of the best known options of all. Although it is historical software, as time has passed it has been adapting to new circumstances. For example, it now allows you to connect OneDrive or Google Drive cloud accounts, among others.
Obviously, it will make it easier for you to protect a ZIP file with a password , since it supports this function. Download a free 45-day trial to see if you like it or not.
8-ZIP
If the look of 7-ZIP seems old-fashioned to you, 8-ZIP is a version adapted to the design patterns of native Windows applications. It has several customization options and compatibility with Windows technologies, such as Windows Hello .
WinRAR
Another classic of contemporary software. WinRAR is very similar to WinZIP, but with the particularity of being able to manage RAR files, its proprietary format. You can download a free trial and use it for 40 days. Of course, at the end of the evaluation, the application usually continues to work.
As far as passwords are concerned, you should know that it offers 256-bit encryption and file separation on multiple volumes. This is very useful for sending very large files by mail or other means.
PeaZIP
The list of files that PeaZIP supports is huge. According to its creators, it is compatible with more than 200 extensions. One thing that will quickly surprise you is its interface, very similar to the Windows file explorer. If you are a user of the Microsoft operating system, you will quickly know how to use this tool.
You can download it completely free of charge from its official website. You have versions for Linux, macOS and, of course, Windows.
Protect a ZIP file with a password and much more
We close this guide by providing you with some interesting links so that you can discover more about ZIP files. Beyond knowing how to protect them with a password, there are other issues that are interesting to know.
Get more out of your ZIP files and compressed folders:
- ▷ WinRAR vs 7Zip: which is the best compressor
- How to join split files with extension 001 and 002
- Winrar on Windows 11, is it still necessary?
- WhatsApp will allow you to send zip files
- How to put password to a folder in Windows 11
And you, what system do you usually use to protect a ZIP file with a password? Do you think 7-ZIP is the best option or do you prefer another? We are very interested in your opinion! Leave it in writing in the comments section and participate in our community.
