If you use a shared PC, locking a folder that contains important files is obvious.
It also helps you from accidental deletion by others and keeps everyones privacy intact.
So, how to do that?
To do that, right-tap on the folder and select Properties.
Then punch the Advanced button and check the box of Encrypt contents to secure data.
Besides you could also useWindows commandsto protect a folder with passwords.
Now, lets see the steps of these methods to protect a folder with a password.
Encrypt a Folder with Password Protection
There is no such built-in folder-locking app on Windows 10 OS.
Instead, it’s possible for you to encrypt a folder with a password.
Now, youll see a prompt to back up your file encryption certificate and key.
Then choose theOKbutton from the successful exporting prompt.
In that case, you must create a new text file inside the folder you want to lock.
Then copy the batch command lines into that, and save the file with .bat extension.
That command file will lock and unlock the folder whenever you want.
For detailed procedures, run with this:
cls@ECHO OFFtitle Folder Lockerif EXIST Control Panel.
If you forget the password, you have nothing but forget the files!
Now, a command console will appear to confirm the folder-locking process.
After that, the command console will close, and the Locker folder will disappear.
If you want to unlock the folder:
The Locker folder will appear again.
To lock the folder again, repeat the same steps.
Moreover, you might apply the same methods if you want tolock a folder in your Windows 11.
So, right-choose the drive and selectTurn on BitLocker.
Check the box to use a password to unlock the drive.
Then set the password and save the backup recovery key.
But Ill recommend you save the recovery key to the local drive, which is the second option.
So that you make a copy and save it anywhere you want.
However, you’re able to select theCompatible modeif you want.
Note:You must save the BitLocker recovery key to a removable drive.
Otherwise, you cant save it.
An encrypting progress status window will appear.
it’s possible for you to click thePausebutton to pause the encryption process or let it continue.
Once the process is completed, select theClosebutton to wrap up the window.
Which indicates the drive is locked.
Enter the password and click theUnlockbutton.
The drive will be unclocked, and all the files and folders inside it will be available for access.
Pro Tip:If you forgot the password for BitLocker, press theMore optionsunder the password field.
Select theEnter recovery keyoption, enter the 48-digit recovery key, and click theUnlockbutton.
Why Cant I Password Protect a Folder?
Plus, unauthorized access protection in the equipment might not support locking a folder in the drive.
So, these are the main reasons that you cant lock a folder on Windows 10.
Now lets explore the reasons in detail.
The fact is when you encrypt a drive, locking anything inside it wont be possible.
So, if this is turned on, locking a folder wont work.
Similarly, you cant turn on BitLocker in Windows 10 Home version.
But there are alternative ways toturn on BitLocker in Windows 10 Home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why cant I put a password on a folder in Windows 10?
If you cant protect a folder with a password on Windows 10, the BitLocker might be turned on.
What does encrypting a folder do?
Decryption is like a password; without it, its meaningless to have encrypted files or folders.
Bottom Line
Now you know how to lock your important folder in Windows 10 with a password.
So none can see your personal files or important documents without your permission from now on.
However, if you need further help regarding Windows OS, go through our website or comment below.
