How to Password Protect and Encrypt Files using 7-Zip for Windows

7-Zip can password protect and encrypt any file you put in a zip folder, regardless of the file extension.

1. Navigate to the 7-Zip download page. 

   Open

   

   Download 7 ZIP file options for Windows

2. Click the correct .exe for your operating system, and save it to your computer.

   Open

   

   Download 7 ZIP file options for Windows

3. Click "Install" then once it's finished, click "Close."

4. Find the file you want to encrypt, right click it, navigate to 7-Zip>Add to archive...

5. You will be presented with this screen.

6. Change the archive format to "zip" to make your zip folder.

7. Create a password for the document, re-enter it, then change the encryption method to AES-256, then press "OK."

8. A zip folder will then be created in the directory your file was in that is both encrypted and password protected with the password you gave it.
   NOTE: If you lose or forget a password, Excel cannot recover your data.
   NOTE: Never email the password to the file in the same email. Either relay the password over the phone or send it using other means like a text message. Do not email the password to the recipient. 

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