How to Password Protect a Folder on Windows and Mac

1 The Simplest Method: ZIP It With a Password

Works on both Windows and Mac. No extra software needed beyond a free ZIP tool.

The easiest way to password-protect a folder is to turn it into an encrypted ZIP file. This works on every operating system, and the recipient doesn't need any special software to open it.

See our full guide: How to Create an Encrypted ZIP File

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Best for: Sending folders to other people, storing sensitive documents, or protecting files you want to move between computers. WinZip makes this especially easy with drag-and-drop encryption.

2 Windows: BitLocker & EFS

Built-in Windows encryption options.

BitLocker (Full Drive Encryption)

Available on Windows 10/11 Pro and Enterprise. BitLocker encrypts an entire drive, not individual folders. Best for protecting everything on a USB drive or external hard drive.

Right-click the drive → "Turn on BitLocker"

In File Explorer, right-click the drive you want to encrypt. Select "Turn on BitLocker."

Choose "Use a password to unlock"

Set a strong password. Save the recovery key somewhere safe (print it or save to a file — you'll need this if you forget the password).

Choose encryption options and start

For most people, the default settings are fine. Click "Start encrypting." This may take a while for large drives.

EFS (Encrypting File System)

Also Windows Pro only. Right-click a folder → Properties → Advanced → check "Encrypt contents to secure data." This ties encryption to your Windows login — the files are automatically accessible when you're logged in and locked when you're not. No separate password to remember, but the files can't be opened on another computer without exporting your encryption certificate.

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3 Mac: Disk Utility Encrypted Image

Create a password-protected container for your files.

Open Disk Utility

Press Command + Space, type "Disk Utility," press Enter.

File → New Image → Image from Folder

Select the folder you want to protect.

Set encryption to 256-bit AES

Choose a save location. Under "Encryption," select 256-bit AES encryption. Set your password when prompted.

Save

This creates a .dmg file that requires a password to open. Double-click it, enter your password, and it mounts like a virtual drive where you can access your files.