How to Lock a Folder on Windows 11

How to Lock a Folder on Windows 11

Keeping sensitive or confidential files and folders secure on your Windows 11 computer is important for maintaining privacy and preventing unauthorized access. One way to protect your data is by locking folders with a password. In this article, we will guide you through the process of locking a folder on Windows 11.

Step 1: Create a New Folder

The first step is to create a new folder that you want to lock. Right-click anywhere on your desktop or in the folder where you want to create the new folder. From the context menu, select New and then Folder. You can name the folder whatever you like.

Step 2: Open File Explorer Options

Next, you will need to open File Explorer Options. You can do this by opening File Explorer and clicking on the View tab in the top menu. From there, click on the Options button.

Step 3: Navigate to View Tab

Once you're in the File Explorer Options window, click on the View tab.

Step 4: Show Hidden Files, Folders, and Drives

Under the Advanced Settings section, scroll down and find the Hidden Files and Folders option. Click on the radio button next to "Show hidden files, folders, and drives." Then, click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

Step 5: Open Folder Properties

Now, go to the folder you want to lock and right-click on it. Select Properties from the context menu.

Step 6: Select Security Tab

In the Properties window, click on the Security tab.

Step 7: Edit Permissions

In the Security tab, click on the Edit button.

Step 8: Add a New User or Group

In the Permissions window, click on the Add button.

Step 9: Type User or Group Name

In the Select Users or Groups window, type in the name of the user or group you want to give access to the folder. If you want to lock the folder for everyone, then type "Everyone" and click on the Check Names button to verify.

Step 10: Set Permissions for User or Group

Once you have selected the user or group, click on the OK button. Now, in the Permissions window, select the user or group you just added and check the box next to "Deny" for the "Full Control" permission. This will prevent the selected user or group from accessing the folder.

Step 11: Confirm Changes

Click on Apply and OK to save the changes. You will be prompted with a warning message that the changes will not take effect until you close and reopen the folder. Click on OK to confirm and close the Properties window.

Step 12: Lock the Folder

Finally, to lock the folder, you need to hide it from plain sight. Right-click on the folder you want to lock and select Properties. Under the General tab, check the box next to "Hidden." Click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

Step 13: Set a Password

Now, to set a password for the folder, you will need to use a third-party software. There are several software options available online, but we recommend using the free software called "Folder Guard."

Download and install Folder Guard from the official website. Once installed, open the software and select the folder you want to lock. Click on the "Protect" button and set a password for the folder.

Congratulations! You have successfully locked a folder on Windows 11. Remember to keep your password safe and secure, and always make backups of your important files and folders.

TO learn how to password protect a folder in windows 10 view website