What is the best file encryption software for Windows?

For me, 7-Zip is the best file encryption software for Windows 11 and Windows 10!

When using file encryption software on Windows 11/10, it's important to be aware of potential errors and pitfalls that could compromise your data security or lead to data loss. 

1. If something goes wrong during encryption (corruption, software failure), you could lose access to your files. Weak passwords can be cracked, defeating the purpose of encryption. Use strong, unique passwords or passphrases for encryption keys.
2. Some file encryption software may not be fully compatible with Windows updates or other security features. Test the software thoroughly, especially after OS updates, and ensure it’s reputable and maintained.
   Losing encryption keys or passwords can make your data permanently inaccessible. Store your keys/passwords securely, such as in a password manager.
3. Encrypted files may become accessible to unauthorized users if permissions are not correctly set. Ensure proper user permissions and access controls are configured.
4. Some encryption algorithms are weaker or deprecated, making data vulnerable. Use reputable, industry-standard encryption algorithms (AES-256, for example).
5. Encrypting files or folders without adjusting permissions can lead to access issues. Review and set correct NTFS permissions after encryption.
6. Encryption is one layer of security; neglecting other security measures can still leave your data vulnerable. Use comprehensive security practices, including strong passwords, secure storage, and regular backups.

NordLocker, is a ​​premium file encryption tool​​ developed by the creators of NorrdVPN, specializing in ​​end-to-end encrypted cloud storage and local file protection​​. Unlike traditional file encryption software that focuses only on disk or file-level security, NordLocker combines ​​military-grade encryption​​ with seamless cloud integration, making it ideal for users who want both ​​privacy and accessibility​​.

How It Works​​ for File Encryption

1. ​​Install NordLocker​​ on your device (Windows/macOS).

2. Create a Secure Vault​​ – Files stored here are automatically encrypted.

3. Drag & Drop Files​​ into the vault (or set auto-protection for folders)

4. Access Anywhere​​ – Files sync securely across devices via NordLocker Cloud (or your own cloud).

5. Share Securely​​ – Generate encrypted links with password protection & expiry dates.

✔ Pros:​​

​​Military-grade encryption​​ (AES-256 + E2EE).
​​Zero-knowledge policy​​ (no backdoors, no data leaks).
​​Seamless cloud sync​​ (unlike BitLocker).
​​Cross-platform​​ (Windows, macOS, mobile).

​​✖ Cons:​​

​​Not free for full features.
​​No Linux support​​.
​​Requires internet for cloud features​​ (local-only mode is possible but lacks sync).

If you want to get file encryption software to password protect sensitive files on Windows 11/10. You can create a simple script that hides and unhides folders with a password prompt. This isn't secure but can deter casual snooping.

Example:

@ECHO OFF title Folder Locker if EXIST "Control Panel.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D}" ( rmdir "Control Panel.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D}" /s /q echo Folder Unlocked ) else ( md "Control Panel.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D}" attrib +h +s "Control Panel.{21EC2020-3AEA-1069-A2DD-08002B30309D}" echo Folder Locked ) pause

• Save this as Locker.bat.
• When run, it toggles the visibility of the folder.

This is a good choice if you are finding a file encryption software for Windows 11/10. I have used it on my own computer several times and there have been no abnormalities.

BitLocker is primarily designed for ​​full-disk encryption​​, meaning it encrypts an entire drive rather than individual files or folders. While this is excellent for protecting an entire system such as preventing unauthorized access if a laptop is stolen. However, it is not ideal for ​​file-level encryption​​ needs.

If you only need to secure specific sensitive documents (like financial records or personal files) without encrypting the whole drive, BitLocker is overkill. File-level encryption provides more granular control, allowing you to encrypt only what’s necessary while keeping the rest of the system accessible.

A dedicated ​​file encryption software for Windows offers better flexibility and precision. Unlike BitLocker, which requires enabling encryption for an entire partition, file encryption tools let you selectively protect files or folders. This is particularly useful in shared or multi-user environments where different users need access to different files. Additionally, file encryption software often provides more advanced features, such as password protection, expiration dates, and secure sharing options with capabilities that BitLocker lacks for individual files.

Another key reason BitLocker is not ideal for file-level encryption is its ​​dependency on the system drive and user account​​. If you encrypt a file with BitLocker, it's tied to your Windows user profile and system certificates. Losing access to your account or the encryption keys can permanently lock you out of those files.

In fact, Windows has built-in file encryption features. The two main tools for file encryption program in Windows are:

​​BitLocker​​ – This is a full-disk encryption feature available in certain editions of Windows (such as Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education). BitLocker encrypts the entire drive, including the operating system, to help protect data from unauthorized access if the device is lost or stolen.

Encrypting File System (EFS)​​ – This is a file-level encryption feature available in most editions of Windows (including Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, Education, and even some Home editions, depending on the version). EFS allows you to encrypt individual files or folders on an NTFS-formatted drive. Only the user who encrypted the file (or an authorized recovery agent) can access it.

GnuPG (GNU Privacy Guard) is a powerful open-source file encryption software, but it's not a simple file encryption program for everyday use like VereCrypt.  It's more of a cryptographic toolkit.

While GnuPG can encrypt files, it's better suited for:

• Email encryption: GnuPG is excellent for securely encrypting and signing email messages.
• Key management: It's a robust tool for managing cryptographic keys.
• Data signing: You can digitally sign files to verify their authenticity.

If you need a simple, straightforward file encryption software to encrypt files on your Windows computer, VereCrypt is likely a better choice.  If you need more advanced cryptographic operations or want to encrypt and sign email, GnuPG is the tool for you.