Guide · Files → AES-256 ZIP
How to Password Protect a ZIP File on Windows (AES-256, Free)
Windows' built-in ZIP tool has no password option. Rotiva adds one: drag a file, press Shift, pick LOCK, and type a password. The result is a standard AES-256 ZIP.
How to do it (3 steps)
- Select one or more files and start dragging them.
- Press Shift while you keep holding the mouse button.
- Point at LOCK, let go, and enter a password. The encrypted ZIP is saved next to the originals.
New to Rotiva? Install it, then look for the wheel icon in the system tray.
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Opening the locked ZIP
Use 7-Zip or WinRAR. Windows File Explorer may not open AES-256 ZIP files, so tell the person you send it to.
Choosing a password
Use plain Latin letters, numbers and common symbols. A longer password is stronger. Send it through a different channel from the file, and keep a copy: a lost password cannot be recovered.
Frequently asked questions
Is LOCK available on macOS and Linux?
Not yet. LOCK is Windows only.
Are the original files deleted?
No. Rotiva creates a new ZIP and leaves the originals alone. Delete them yourself if only the locked copy should remain.
Get Rotiva free
Windows, macOS & Linux · No limits · No ads · 100% offline