Exe Wrapper

CNET Editors' review

by: CNET Staff on February 27, 2009

This utility can place password protection on any executable file, but occasionally renders the file unusable. Exe Wrapper's simple dialog-sized interface is easy to understand. Even novices won't need the short Help screen.

Exe Wrapper's program operation is a simple four-step wizard. The program uses the default file browse tool to find the executable to password protect. Users easily enter a simple text password in a small text box. Options are simple to set, but the publisher fails to adequately explain the ramifications of Memory Encryption. A slider and browse tool can be used to load a new icon for the password protected executable.

The password protected files are not noticeably larger. The only extra step to executing a password protected file is a single dialog for password entry. If you choose to open a file, the process is easily accomplished with just a file browse and password entry.

All in all, it's a very easy process to add password protection. The problem is, many files will not run after they're wrapped. Testers tried a variety of options, but didn't find a pattern to predict which executables could be successfully password protected.

Oddly, clicking Help abandons the wizard. That's just a minor irritation, though, as this app can't guarantee executables will run after the password protection process. If you have a particular executable you want to test, the 15-day trial is generous.