Lock and Hide Folder

As you might expect from its name, this encryption program hides and encrypts important files. It performed well once we applied our administrator settings, but it came with one of the stingiest trial periods we've ever seen.

Lock and Hide Folder has a very basic user interface that proved simple to navigate. Large menu buttons at the top of the window make it easy to add, remove, hide, and show important files. The program uses 256-bit Blowfish encryption to keep your folders safely protected. It's not password-protected when you first access it, so you'll have to go into the Settings menu to create one. Once we entered and confirmed our password, we were asked to run the program as an administrator to apply the password settings. Adding files was extremely easy, as was hiding them from view. As soon as we clicked OK, the folder disappeared instantly. Although we could put the program into stealth mode, doing so didn't prevent us from being able to locate and uninstall it. This may be a trial restriction, but that wasn't indicated.

Each time we accessed the program, a nag screen reminded us of its ridiculously short, 3-day trial period. If you're willing to make up your mind fast, this is one of the easiest programs to use that we've ever tried. It is suitable for any level user.