Encryption and Windows are not always a couple that gets along, according to computer experts

The encryption of files or folders on a Windows operating system can only be done on New Technology File System files and folders. This is as opposed to File Allocation Tables (which, due to their relative simplicity, are widely used on simpler technological components like digital cameras, cellular phones, memory cards, etc.) and High Performance File Systems (which are scarcely used at all anymore save for small IBM niches and random electronic devices like automatic teller machines). Otherwise, file encryption can be done in one of three ways.

Manually (Older Operating Systems)

Files can be encrypted on older Windows Operating Systems manually. On Windows XP, for example, one simply needs to open Windows Explorer, right-click the folder for encryption, and select properties. Then, click “Advanced” under the “General” tab and select “Encrypt contents to secure data” under “Compress or Encrypt Attributes.” Click “Ok” twice, then click on either “Apply changes to this folder only” or “Apply changes to this folder, subfolders, and files” before clicking “Ok” for a last time.

Automatically (Latter Operating Systems)

In latter Windows operating systems like Vista and Windows 7, encryption is offered through a preinstalled program called BitLocker. One simply needs to open the program and navigate the simple interface to encrypt anything from single files to entire directories.

Through Third-Party Software

If one does not care to learn how to encrypt software manually or prefers not to use BitLocker, he or she can always install third-party software that will do the encryption. Many of these software tools are offered online for free.