How To Encrypt A Folder Windows 11 From File Explorer With A Password?

Does Windows 11 allow encryption?

Yes, Windows 11 does allow encryption to help protect your data. Device encryption and EFS (Encrypting File System) are built-in features in some editions of Windows 11. It helps protect your files by encrypting the entire drive, so your data stays safe if your laptop is lost or stolen. However, this feature is only available on supported devices.

For more advanced options, Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions include BitLocker. BitLocker is a powerful tool that lets you choose which drives to encrypt and gives you more control over how encryption works. It’s not available on the Home edition.

While basic device encryption works in the background and doesn’t let you pick specific drives, BitLocker allows you to encrypt only the drives you want. This makes it a better option for users who need more flexibility.

In addition to drive encryption, password protecting folders is another way to keep your private data safe. This is useful when you want to:

Using encryption and password protection together can greatly improve your data security on Windows 11.

How to encrypt a folder in Windows 11 from File Explorer?

EFS is a built-in Windows feature that lets you encrypt individual files or folders. When you encrypt a folder using EFS, every file placed in that folder is automatically encrypted. This adds an extra layer of protection, especially for personal or sensitive data.

Here are a few important things to know about EFS:

Step 1. Press "Windows + E" to launch Windows File Explorer. Navigate to the folder you want to protect.

Step 2. Right-click the folder and select "Properties". In the folder's Properties window, access "Advanced" under the "General" tab.

Step 3. In the Advanced Attributes window, check "Encrypt contents to secure data", and then click "OK".

Step 4. Return to the folder properties screen and click "Apply".

Step 5. When the Encryption Warning pops up, select "Encrypt the file and its parent folder (recommended)" or "Encrypt the file only", and click "OK".

Step 6. Select "Back up now (recommended)" in the notification pop-up window.

Step 7. Click "Next" to continue with the Certificate Export Wizard. Keep the default selections and click "Next".

Step 8. Check the Password box and enter the password of your choice twice to access the encrypted file. Click "Next".

Step 9. Give the file a name and click "Next".

Note: It is important to back up this file to an external drive (such as a USB flash drive) and store it securely.

Step 10. When the operation is done, click "OK" to close all windows.

Now Windows 11 password protect folder with EFS encryption has been completed.

How to use BitLocker to password protect a folder or even a drive?

If you need a faster and more secure way to protect data, BitLocker is better than EFS. While EFS encrypts files or folders one by one, BitLocker encrypts the entire drive at once, saving time and offering stronger protection. However, BitLocker is only available on Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education. If you use the Home edition, you’ll need to upgrade, which costs around $99.

As an alternative, tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant let you use encryption similar to BitLocker even on Windows 11 or 10 Home. You can encrypt the entire drive with just a few clicks, manage passwords, and back up recovery keys, all through a simple and clear interface. It’s a convenient and effective option for anyone who wants strong drive protection without upgrading their version of Windows.

Now, let’s say good bye to the replacement, and turn on this the real BitLocker on your Windows 11 Home device.

Step 1. Install and open AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional. Go to the "Tools" section and choose "BitLocker".

Step 2. Pick the drive partition you wish to encrypt and tap on "Turn on BitLocker".

Step 3. Create a password, verify it, and press "Next" to proceed.

Step 4. Decide how to back up your recovery key: either "Save to a file" or "Print the recovery key". Then, click Next to start the encryption process.

Conclusion

How to encrypt a folder in Windows 11 from File Explorer? Windows 11 offers several ways to protect your data through encryption. While EFS allows you to encrypt specific folders or files. BitLocker is more efficient for securing large amounts of data but is only available in higher editions of Windows. For Home edition users, third-party tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant offer a simple and effective alternative. Whether you use built-in features or external tools, combining encryption with password protection can greatly enhance your data security.