How to protect folder with password on Windows 11
Do you want to protect folders and files with a password? Here’s how on Windows 11.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
OnWindows 11, you won’t find a feature to add a password to a folder to protect your files because your account already uses a password and encryption, and you should be the only one accessing your profile.
However, if you share the computer with others, are concerned about unauthorized access, or want to add another layer of security, you can use Windows 11’s virtual hard disk feature along withBitLockerto protect files and folders with a password.
In thishow-to guide, I will explain how to protect a folder with a password using drive virtualization and encryption features available on Windows 11.
How to add password to folder on Windows 11
Windows 11 doesn’t have a feature to protect a folder with a password because the account is already protected with your profile credentials (and encryption if you use BitLocker). However, you can use the virtual drive and BitLocker features to create a secure drive with a password, which works similarly to a password-protected folder.
Create virtual drive to act as a folder
To create a virtual drive that will act as a password-protected folder, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the virtual drive will be created, and you can now use it as a folder to securely store files by encrypting it using BitLocker.
Protect folder with BitLocker password
To set up BitLocker to protect the drive with a password on Windows 11, use these steps:
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
After you complete the steps, the virtual drive will be secured with a password.
Unlock password-protected folder
To open a folder with a password on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the drive will open, allowing you to add, modify, and remove your sensitive files.
Lock password-protected folder
To close and lock a folder with a password on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the folder (drive) will lock, and the password will be required to unlock the contents again.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
