FileBarricader 2004

At the onset, this easy-to-use application doesn't look like much, but further investigation reveals it's one of the better encryption utilities we've tested. For starters, FileBarricader 2004 is conveniently integrated with Windows, quickly encrypting and decrypting items via a right-click menu. Aside from passwords, the program gives a few algorithms to encrypt documents, such as DES, Rijndael, and Triple DES. For additional security, FileBarricader 2004 can easily be set to securely erase originals automatically after every encryption or decryption process. It creates self-decrypting executables, so sending encrypted files to others without FileBarricader 2004 installed isn't a hassle. What's more, it includes options to securely obliterate any file from your PC; though you can only set it to a maximum of three passes. The program impressively encrypts/decrypts multiple files and entire folders with a single password. Although FileBarricader 2004 isn't exactly a powerhouse, this freeware has enough going for it to be useful to a wide range of users.