File Encryption Software for Windows
Locking or hiding a local file is not the same as creating an encrypted copy. If the file must remain protected after it leaves this PC, use File Lock Pro's File Encryption tool and verify the GFL or EXE output before sharing it.
Quick answer
Open More Tools > File Encryption, add a test file or folder, and choose GFL or EXE output. GFL requires GiliSoft File Lock Pro to open; EXE is a self-extracting Windows package, so confirm the recipient can run EXE files. Keep the original and test decryption before delivery.
Choose the Right Protection Layer
| Need | Best-fit layer | Important check |
|---|---|---|
| Reduce casual visibility on this PC | Hide selected content | Hiding does not create an encrypted copy. |
| Control local access | Lock a file, folder, or supported drive | Local locking is not a portable delivery format. |
| Stop editing or deletion | Protecting File rules | Test save, rename, move, overwrite, and delete |
| Send a protected copy | File Encryption: GFL or Windows EXE | Test the correct opener and password on another PC. |
| Protect an entire lost or stolen drive | Full-volume encryption | Verify recovery key and boot recovery |
Prepare Before You Lock or Encrypt Anything
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Keep a restorable original.
Make a separate backup and open a sample from that backup.
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Choose a limited test target.
Use a copy that represents the real files without risking active work.
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List legitimate access.
Record the users and applications that must still read or update the content.
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Set recovery information.
Use a unique password and confirm the recovery email or documented recovery process.
Encrypt Files with GiliSoft File Lock Pro
The File Encryption screen is separate from Local Disk > Locking File and Hiding File. Use a noncritical copy to test the output you intend to keep or send.
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Open File Encryption.
In GiliSoft File Lock Pro, choose More Tools > File Encryption.
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Add the source.
Select the file or folder and keep the original until the encrypted output has been verified.
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Choose GFL or EXE output.
Choose GFL when the recipient can use GiliSoft File Lock Pro. Choose EXE for a self-extracting Windows package only when the recipient is allowed to run EXE files.
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Set a strong, recoverable password.
Use a unique passphrase and keep recovery information separate from the encrypted package.
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Open the output before delivery.
Open a test copy with the same method the recipient will use, enter the password, extract it, and compare the result with the source before deleting or archiving anything.
Verify the Encrypted Output and Recovery Path
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Keep the source and backup.
Do not delete the original until the output opens and a separate backup has been checked.
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Test the intended recipient path.
Open the GFL output in File Lock Pro or run the EXE package on a suitable Windows PC.
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Decrypt and compare.
Enter the password, extract to a safe folder, and open representative files in their normal applications.
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Check delivery compatibility.
Confirm that the recipient can install File Lock Pro for GFL or run an EXE if that format was selected.
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Keep recovery information separately.
Store the password or recovery details away from the encrypted package.
What This Workflow Does Not Replace
File Lock Pro adds focused controls for selected Windows content. It does not replace a tested backup, malware defense, Windows account and NTFS permissions, centralized endpoint management, or full-volume encryption for a lost device. Microsoft documents these as separate layers: file permissions control requested access, file encryption protects selected data, Controlled Folder Access limits untrusted application changes, and BitLocker-style encryption addresses whole volumes.
For business use, test protection with a standard user account and the actual software workflow before deployment. Do not assume a successful rule blocks every alternate path or administrative recovery method.
File Encryption Software for Windows FAQ
Is file encryption the same as full-disk encryption?
No. File Lock Pro's File Encryption creates protected output for selected files or folders. Full-disk encryption protects an entire volume, including against offline access to a lost device.
Should I keep a backup before applying protection?
Yes. Keep a tested backup that is independent of the protected path, and do not store the only recovery information beside the protected data.
Can GiliSoft File Lock Pro protect every business workflow?
No single desktop utility replaces Windows account permissions, endpoint management, backups, audit policy, malware protection, and staff procedures. Use GiliSoft File Lock Pro for the focused task described on this page.
How should I test the result?
Use a noncritical sample, open the GFL or EXE output on an appropriate Windows PC, decrypt it with the password, and compare the extracted content with the source.
What happens if the password is lost?
Recovery depends on the configured product and account options. Set and verify recovery information before protecting important data.