7-Zip Portable
A portable application and powerful file compression utility that provides 256-bit AES encryption.
License:
Free
Pros & Cons:
Very simple to use (but see Con's). Compresses as well as encrypts. Integrates with the PortableApps.com suite (for USB drives). Work directly from Windows Explorer or the user interface.
7-Zip's user interface is simple, but a bit mysterious until you catch on to how to use it. Also, you need to use a workaround if you want to create new files directly in the encrypted archive to avoid leaving an unencrypted file or file remnant behind.
Our Review:
7-Zip Portable is a powerful file compression utility that provides 256-bit AES encryption for *.7z and *.zip formats.
It's very easy to use, but has a short, steep learning ramp. Be aware that if you add an unencrypted to a encrypted 7-Zip archive, the unencrypted file must be shredded, not just deleted. Otherwise it will be available to anyone who has access to your computer.
Do not edit and save files directly in the archive either as they will not be encrypted.
7-Zip Portable was reviewed by Gizmos Freeware on based on version 9.2.
We are looking for people with skills or interest in the following areas: