- AESCrypt is a free and open source software that enables you to encrypt files and folders. It works with Windows, Android, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Python. It uses 256-bit AES encryption to secure data and is very easy to use. This one is ideal if you only need to encrypt a few select files.
- Free download Easy File Encryptor Easy File Encryptor for Mac OS X. Easy File Encryptor - Add AES-256 encryption to your files and messages on Mac.
Full-disk encryption (FDE) is a low-effort way to ensure that if someone were to get ahold of one of your drives while unmounted or a Mac while powered down, the contents on the drive would be.
By Gina Barrow, Last updated: April 24, 2020
Encryption is the safest and best way to protect data as it encodes a certain file or information in such a way that only authorized users or those with passwords can access. Information including bank details, sensitive personal records should be encrypted to avoid data theft.
Computer operating systems have built-in encryption features but these provide easy to medium form of security and still prone to expert hackers. You need to invest in encryption software if it is a requirement for your type of usage. Here are the top 5 best encryption software for Macin 2020. Check out which one works for your needs.
Part 1. Why Need to Encrypt Mac Files?
All vital files stored inside a computer including Mac need to be encrypted for security purposes. If you happen to hear, watch, and read the news, there are reported cases of stolen identities and bank information due to unsecured files saved inside people’s stolen laptops and computers.
To avoid such hassle, you can rely on encryption software for Mac but the main concern here is what the best software to use is.
Part 2. Apple’s Encryption Software for Mac for free
If you are concerned about data privacy and your Mac contains sensitive information that must be kept personal, then you should use encryption. Apple has its own encryption software that users can utilize for free. There are actually different ways on how to encrypt files on Mac.
Encryption via Disk Utility
- Use the spotlight search and type in Disk Utility. You can also go to Utilities under Applications.
- Go to File on the topmost tools and hover to New Image then click on Image from Folder
- Select the folder you wish to encrypt from the newly popped-up window
- Rename the file you want to encrypt and go to the bottom part where you can set the encryption settings
- You can choose between the 128 and the 256-bit. (The higher the encryption the better but it takes slower time to complete request)
- Once you have selected your encryption method, you need to provide and verify your password. (Note: Remember your password because it will never grant you access to the given folder until the correct password is supplied). Click Choose.
- For the Image format, you can choose compressed.
- Wait until the encryption is completed.
This type of encryption affects the folder and its file contents so anytime you wish to open the folder and the files inside, you need to provide the password.
- You can now see a new Archive folder on the desktop which was the same file you encrypted
- You can delete the old folder to remove any access to it
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Use FileVault
FileVault is full-disk encryption that uses XTS-AES-128 encryption with a 256-bit key to preventing unauthorized access to your personal information on the startup disk. Basically, you won’t be able to go through Mac unless you provide the password.
The FileVault2 is available in OS X Lion and later versions. All you need to take advantage of this feature is to turn on FileVault in your Mac. Here’s how:
- Go to Security & Privacy under System Preferences
- Click the FileVault tab and click on the lock icon
- Enter the administration username and password
- Turn on FileVault
If you are using multiple users on Mac, you can enable each user and type in their assigned password.
Print to PDF
Another file encryption method in Mac is the Print to PDF wherein you can do the security lock on the print window itself after creating or editing certain file/s.
Free File Encryption
- Go to Print
- Choose PDF
- Click Save as PDF
- Before saving it, go to Security Options
- Check the box for your desired password security measures
- Don’t forget to verify the password and click Save
Part 3. The Best Encryption Software for Mac in 2020
In the sea of many software and applications, there seems to be plenty of programs dedicated to single-use or single-function. They are good because they focus on one solution, however, they also cost more expensive.
If you browse thoroughly, you will discover that there are a few applications that offer sets of operations and toolkits specially designed for Mac. FoneDog PowerMyMac - Cleaner provides comprehensive modules dedicated to Mac OS. It has three powerful modules: Toolkit, Status, and Cleaner.
Inside FoneDogPowerMyMac-Cleaner Toolkit, there is a robust function called Hide and Encrypt Files. This feature allows you to create a password-protected folder and store sensitive files in it by drag and drop. It lets you turn on and off in case you may not use the feature.
- User-friendly
- Free download version
- Auto-lock setup
- Uses the safest encryption system
How cool is that? This program has made an easier way to protect you from possible data theft.
Part 4. Other Mac Encryption Tools
Apart from FoneDog PowerMyMac-Cleaner, there is other top performing software that also provides convenience and security.
Hider 2
Hider2 has the ability to hide and encrypt data on your Mac securely including notes, documents, photos, etc. One of its positive scores is the user-friendly interface which suits beginner to average users.
- Provides auto-lock feature when the user is inactive or idled
- Uses AES-256 encryption for the safest system
Cisdem AppCrypt
Cisdem AppCrypt offers both website and app encryption system that locks you apps and accessed websites with passwords. It creates a blacklist for suspicious access and whitelist for trusted users. However, it does not have the file encryption ability that sets passwords for the desired file and folders.
- Keeps a list of login attempts to let you know who opens your apps
- User-friendly
GNU Privacy Guard
GNU Privacy Guard is hybrid Mac encryption software that uses a combination of standard symmetric-key cryptography and public-key cryptography. The conjuring 2013 movie download. It mainly features a versatile key management system to protect your personal privacy and the privacy of the people you are communicating with.
- Versatile (has Windows and Mac versions)
- Free Software
However, since it provides you with a private key for safekeeping, you might end up having a hard time figuring out how to decode it once the keys are lost.
Concealer
Concealer is another trusted name in terms of hiding files and encryption. It provides an automatic password assistant that generates “strong” passwords. One of its main advantages is providing and organizing folders by having default templates for various accounts such as bank accounts, email, software registration, and more.
- Customizable auto-lock system
- Easy to use with drag and drop features
- Uses the master password and assigns separate or individual passwords to each file inside
Part 5. Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Encryption Software for Mac
I know you may have gotten confused on which program to use or will work best for you after reading through the different software you can choose from. There is plenty of encryption software for Mac; however, bear in mind that you need to consider quality and multi-function when it comes to having a “good buy”.
You need a program that provides an all-in-one solution that you can rely on when things go rough on your device. I recommend using FoneDog PowerMyMac for the following factors:
- Security– It the important concern above all. You have to be keen about how these programs work to secure your files and your Mac overall.
- Encryption– Based on the above-mentioned encryption data, there are different types of password-protection format. Choose the one that provides the safest and considers your files their topmost priority.
- Encryption Speed- Consider a program that can encrypt even your large files at the shortest period of time. We know that large files take a while to be fully encrypted so you need software that can minimize the time constraints.
- Software License- Although free programs are good such as the GNU Privacy Guard, an open source software, you need to consider that free software is not entirely best for your needs since everyone can download it. The same thing goes for paid programs; you have to be extra cautious on how much it costs and its corresponding features. To be sure, you can take advantage of their free-trial versions first so you can determine if it works for you or not.
Part 6. Conclusions
We care so much about data privacy and we understand how crucial it is to be well-protected. You cannot simply store important files in your Mac especially when you have multiple users or you plan to sell it later on.
We know how much you want to protect your files from prying eyes and suspicious people that is why we have compiled and researched the different programs that can help you secure them. The encryption software for Mac we listed has their own Pros and Cons where you can assess according to their features.
Simply choose a program that will password-protect your files, optimize your system, and provide you with complete troubleshooting toolkit. Do you have any other concerns regarding encryption software for Mac? Please write your concerns in the comments below!
With the constantly increasing of modern people’s awareness of privacy protection, data/file encryption has become an indispensable part of our lives. Especially for some large companies and high-ranking workers in the office, looking for a good and practical file encryption software for computer is not so easy because the file encryption software market is flooded with innumerable similar encryption products from which you can hardly determine which to use.
Moreover, for the safety of vital files, they usually require a higher level of security for encryption, and the required file encryption software is mainly for business, not the general personal using. But don’t worry for we have sorted out the top 12 best file encryption software for you in this article, which can save your time and energy of finding out the most suitable file encryption software for Windows and Mac computer. The following is a general introduction and review on these 12 free file encryption software.
1. Gihosoft File Encryption (Windows)
Gihosoft File Encryption is one of the best file encryption software for PC. With which you can lock files and folder, create virtual disk to password protect files, make dummy files to confuse others, upload files to cloud. As a practical file encryption software for Windows, it mainly adopts the password to protect your vital or sensitive data/files, so only those who know the correct master password can open this program to access relevant data/files.
With a clean and intuitive graphic user interface, this program can let you conveniently find the function you need exactly, making it easy for you to get started! It both supports folder encryption and multiple file type encryption, such as the Excel file, picture file, Word file, etc. Besides, you can also create a virtual disk in which you can put files/folders to achieve file/folder encryption as well. It’s worth mentioning that you can download this file encryption software to try before purchase.
2. VeraCrypt (Windows/OS X/Linux)
VeraCrypt is another practical file encryption software which is free for users to download on Windows, OS X, and Linux. VeraCrypt is the branch and successor of TrueCrypt. It usually uses AES to encrypt files, in addition to TwoFish and Serpent. Apart from the encryption for individual folders of files, VeraCrypt can also create a virtual encrypted disk in a file, or use a pre-boot authentication to encrypt the partition or (in Windows) the entire storage device.
Those who love VeraCrypt praise it as an instant encryption tool because your files are only decrypted when needed and are encrypted at all other time. At the same time, many people say that even if it lacks a good-looking interface, it is still a powerful tool that is easy to use. You also noticed that VeraCrypt may not support TrueCrypt files and containers, but can convert them to its own format. Its development team is constantly working hard to improve the user experience, making it more functional.
3. 7-Zip (Windows/OS X/Linux)
7-Zip is a free file archiving program that is used to place files in a compressed container called “archive”. But in addition to that, it is still a good file encryption software for computer. It is mainly compatible with Windows, OS X, and Linux systems. It is worth noting that the official download of this file encryption software only supports Windows systems, but there are also unofficial versions supporting Linux and OS X systems.
7-Zip can convert a single file or an entire volume into an encrypted volume that only has the key you own. This program is completely free, even for commercial use, and it also supports 256-bit AES encryption. In addition to the security key, the single file can also be encrypted with a password and converted to an executable file that will be self-decrypted when it reaches the intended recipient.
4. AxCrypt (Windows)
AxCrypt is also an excellent free file encryption software for Windows 10/8/7 we strongly recommend for you. As a free, open source, and GNU GPL licensed encryption software, it is proud of its simplicity, efficiency, and ease of use. It integrates well with the Windows shell, so you can right-click on the file to encrypt it.
The best part is that it provides “timed” executable encryption to automatically decrypt the file after a certain period of time, or to automatically decrypt it when its intended recipient receives it. Files encrypted with AxCrypt can be decrypted as needed or kept decrypted while in use and then automatically re-encrypted when modified or closed. AxCrypt runs very fast, although you can choose to encrypt the entire folder or a large set of files.
5. BitLocker (Windows)
As we all know, BitLocker is a complete volume encryption tool which is built into Windows systems, and it supports all Windows versions starting with Windows Vista. In other words, it achieves data protection primarily by providing encryption for the entire volume. By default, it uses the AES encryption algorithm in the Cipher Block Chaining (CBC) or the XTS mode with a 128-bit or 256-bit key.
It provides users with a variety of authentication mechanisms, and the common ones of them are the traditional password and USB “key”. In addition to these two mechanisms, the controversial Trusted Platform Module (TPM) technology (using hardware to integrate keys into devices) is also used. Either way, the integration of BitLocker with Windows (especially Windows 8 Pro) makes BitLocker accessible to many people. At the same time, BitLocker is a viable disk encryption tool, especially for individual users who need to protect data when a laptop or hard drive is lost or stolen, in case their data is maliciously compromised.
6. LastPass
LastPass is probably the most important choice as the best password manager tool for users. All the incredible features which this password manager tool offers are beneficial and handy for the users. The best part of using this password manager tool is that it is safe and secure than most of the other password manager tools available for the users. The latest encryption technology used in this password manager tool is pretty much capable of delivering high-end results to the users as their saved passwords will never get exposed or hacked suspiciously by the users. The easy to use and intuitive interface of this password manager tool is another very bad thing for the users, which attracts them the most. There is also a user-manual guide available for the users which they can read to set up as secure and safe password onto their accounts and other related websites. The two-factor authentication system available in this password manager tool is another considerable advantage for the users, which will add an extra layer of security in their accounts. Moreover, users can save or store different passwords for the multiple accounts present in their devices.
The advanced and optimized techniques of this password manager tool are probably the best part of it. When the features are optimized, then you will experience high-quality security features. The mobile application of LastPass is available for both Android and iOS users. Furthermore, users can also use the extension of the LastPass password manager tool in their main web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, etc. So, LastPass is an excellent choice for users with a lot of optimized features.
7. FileVault2
This password manager tool is designed and developed for macOS and Mac Hardware. FileVault2 software tool is an excellent choice for users who want to block every single unauthorized access into their private accounts. This password manager tool will not only manage your passwords but also it will provide you the security and privacy protection as well. FileVault2 password manager tool is developed with secured AES-128 encryption along with a crucial 256-bit algorithm to secure the passwords which have been saved by the users in their Mac devices. This password manager tool is an open-source software tool that can be used by any Mac user. However, this software also comes in a paid version, which will unlock premium security features to manage the passwords saved in the devices. The overall graphic user-interface of this software is also developed pretty much enhanced by its developers to make it more attractive than other software tools. There is no single chance for hackers to penetrate the security breaches set up by this password manager tool. All the passwords which have been saved in this software tool are entirely safe and secured. There is nothing to worry about when you have used FileVault2 encryption software on your device to secure your passwords and other confidential data.
8. DiskCryptor
Yet another very excellent choice for the users as a free, open-source, and encryption software. As the name of this software itself suggest that this software can be used to encrypt or secure the data present in the internal or external hard disks of your PC. Even the system partitions and ISO images can be encrypted using this brilliant software whose name is DiskCryptor. The easy to use interface of this software is awesome, which will let you operate this software hassle-free. DiskCryptor is a full disk encryption tool that is now made as a partial disk encryption tool. There are multiple encryption techniques or algorithms that are working behind the functionality of this software like AES encryption, Twofish encryption, and many more secure encryption techniques as well. All you need to do is click on the “Encrypt data” option available inside this software and select the parts of the disk which you want to encrypt. After selecting the files, proceed to further guidelines to accomplish your task of encryption. As we already mentioned, DiskCryptor is very easy to use for every user, and encrypted data is safe and secured with this software. Users are not required to register themselves on this software as it doesn’t require any registration process to be done for the setup. Just launch this software on your PC, followed by a selection of files to encrypt them will do the job for you. We highly recommend this software to our users as DiskCryptor is very easy to use, and the interface of this software is incredibly well developed.
9.HTTPS Everywhere
HTTPS Everywhere is a web browser which is particularly developed for the users who want to experience secured surfing on the web. Because data privacy is still the most critical concern among the users, hence HTTPS Everywhere browser becomes a good option to surf safely on the internet. The HTTPS Everywhere can be used in your system with other web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, etc. as well. The encryption technology used by this web browser is pretty much optimized and latest, which will make sure that your private data will not get hacked in any case.
Because most of the bank frauds and other financial frauds are done online, that’s why there is an urgent need for software that can protect the users from online fraud. And HTTPS Everywhere software is doing the same job for the users. This encryption software is pretty much secured, and there are no chances that anyone can steal any single bit of data from your systems. So, we would suggest our users install this browser on their PC for a safe and secure internet surfing.
10. Tor Browser
Tor Browser is yet another perfect kind of web browser which is developed to secure the traces of your online activities. This browser will secure all your online activities from prying eyes of hackers and other wrongdoers. The most important thing related to this software is that Tor browser will never let the hackers steal the IP address of your PC. The tor browser will always mask your identity in front of all users and will never let your privacy to be exposed. The latest version of Tor Browser 0.4.0.4 comes with several bugs fixes which makes it more convenient and relevant for the users. The latest and newly optimized alpha version of the tor browser is going to release very soon, which will offer so many newly optimized features to the users.
11.CyberGhost
Basically, CyberGhost is not typical encryption software. CyberGhost is a VPN that users can use to connect to different networks and can make sure that their private data will remain confidential. VPN connections are the most secured connections available on the web, which are pretty much efficient as well. And one name in the segment of popular VPN connections is CyberGhost, which is an outstanding choice for the users. CyberGhost is developed with the latest encryption algorithms by the developers who can protect your online identity and data from suspicious activities. CyberGhost provides the feature of connecting to more than 100 different web servers of more than 50 plus countries. As browsing in private mode will secure your privacy concerns, that’s why CyberGhost becomes an excellent choice for every user. CyberGhost has recently won the “Best Value” category award of top VPN awards 2019.
CyberGhost VPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to the users. Furthermore, CyberGhost works very well with almost every OS like Windows, iOS, Mac OS, and Android OS as well. The basis user-manual guide available on this software is also beneficial for the users who are using a VPN connection for the very first time. That manual will guide them on how to use a VPN and how to switch the server connections instantly. That’s why to secure and encrypt all your digital assets in the most efficient manner; there will be no other choice better than CyberGhost VPN.
12. ExpressVPN
Another trendy name in this section of top VPN companies is ExpressVPN, and this undoubtedly one of the most incredible options which we have ever seen. The latest 256-bit AES encryption technology algorithm is used in this VPN connection, which is having on the most advanced privacy protection features. Express VPN also offers almost the same kind of functions as provided by CyberGhost VPN. ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to its users, which is probably one of the best features of this software. You can easily connect your PC to the servers of almost 148+ locations of 90 different countries, which is an incredible feature. Talking about the compatibility of ExpressVPN, then it is pretty much compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, and Mac OS as well. That’s why ExpressVPN has a huge fan following, and there can be no option better than this VPN company. The graphic user-interface of this VPN is also a great thing about it. Moreover, ExpressVPN is very simple and easy to install and use. The overall setup is also very convenient and reliable to use. So, ExpressVPN should be your backup choice because most of the VPN like CyberGhost is recently launched, and they frequently go out from working. So, in that case, ExpressVPN should have to do the job for you.
Applying these security measures to enhance your online safety
In this part of the article, we will now discuss some basic set of different security layers. There are many things which should be kept in mind while setting up multiple layers of security, such as:
- Using Antivirus software: If we use antivirus software on our PC, then it will provide an extra layer of protection from hackers. Additionally, antivirus software will also offer some different functions to use as well. However, you have to spend some additional money to purchase premium Antivirus software. Antivirus software will make sure that you are getting all-around protection for all your digital assets.
- Keeping both browser and OS up to date: Another very crucial thing which we should keep in our mind while setting up multiple layers of security is that we should keep both the OS and the web browser of our system updated.
- Be careful while connecting to Public networks: It is a well-known fact that the majority of the privacy threat is given by the public networks which aim to steal the confidential data of the users.
Free File Encryption Mac Os
Conclusion:
Those listed above are the top 12 best file encryption software that we have carefully selected for you from a wide range of similar products. We hope that you will consider them practical, and you can share these 12 best free file encryption software with your friends and family members who may be in need now. If you need help, you can leave your message in our comment section below!