Windows computers are usually protected by password or biometric security measures. However, no safety method can guarantee that someone else can never access your device. For example, it is just a few of these situations that a laptop left open in a café or wants your children to use the computer to play games. In such cases, hiding files and folders can be an effective method for safety. Windows operating system and third -party software offer various solutions for such needs.
File and Folder Hiding Methods via File Explorer
Windows’s File Explorer will hide specific system files by default. These files are closed to the user’s access because the system is critical for the operation of the system. However, it is possible to view these invisible files. You can show hidden files by following the steps below:
- Open the File Explorer and click three points on the upper toolbar.
- Click “Options” from the opens menu.
- In the visible window, switch to the “view” tab.
- Activate the “Show Hidden Files, Folders and Drivers” option.
- Confirm the process by pressing the “OK” button.
As a result of these operations, hidden system files will become visible. However, if you want to hide your own files and folders in a similar way, you can watch these steps:
- Right -click the file or folder you want to hide.
- Click “Properties” from the drop -down menu.
- In the “General” (General) tab, mark the “hidden” box.
- Complete the process by pressing the “OK” button.
Following this process, the related files and folders will be invisible unless the file traveler settings are not changed. However, this method provides a basic protection. Someone who has knowledge of the computer can easily change the settings required to view hidden files. It may be necessary to use additional software to provide stronger privacy and security.
File and folder protection with third -party software
If you are looking for a more comprehensive security solution, you can choose third -party file protection software. These software not only hide your files, but also close access to access by encryption. Thus, even if access to your computer is provided, it becomes very difficult to access your hidden data.
One of the most preferred software in this field Folder Lock application. With a user -friendly interface, this software is under password protection your files and folders. You can store data up to 1 GB in the free version and synchronize these data between two different devices. If needed, the pro version offers more advanced features.
Folder Lock Installation and Usage
Folder Lock When installing the application, you need to do the following operations:
- Determine where your digital cabinet (Locker) will be stored in the computer. It is recommended that files be stored in less remarkable sub -folders.
- To use the application, set an e-mail address and a powerful password.
When Folder Lock is not open, the created digital cabinet will be invisible in File Explorer. To add or display files, you need to start the application and log in. You can easily manage your files with the following operations:
- Drag and release files and folders to your digital cabinet.
- Double -click on it to access locked files.
- To hide all files, press the “lock” in the application.
After these operations, your digital cabinet will become invisible again. When the application is switched off, no one can access the files you store.
Folder Lock Extra Security Features
Folder Lock is not limited to file storage and concealment. Various additional safety features are also available in the application:
- Secrets Department: You can safely store precise data such as passwords, notes and credit card information.
- Safeguard Feature: It can be used to delete files completely and not back. This process allows permanent destruction of the files by rewriting the data with random data.
- Encryption: All data are protected by the AES 256-bit encryption standard.
- Cloud backup: You can provide additional security by backing up your files to cloud services such as Google Drive, OneDrive or Dropbox.
The Windows operating system offers useful features to hide files and folders at the basic level. However, third -party software, such as Folder Lock for stronger protection, provide more reliable solutions. Especially for users who want to store sensitive data, encryption, backup and data destruction features offer significant advantages. Such software is an effective option to increase the security of personal and professional data.