SecurDataStor Professional for Windows

Our biggest concern with this security program was that it would prove too difficult to figure out in the short five-day trial period. Even SecurDataStor Professional's setup was a trial and error process. After install, you'll find an overwhelming eight-item program folder on the Start menu. Add to that two other standalone menu items, SecurAdmin and SecureDataStor.

Accessing the latter takes you through a overcomplicated setup process. All you're doing is setting up the user name, password, and security question. However, instead of informing you up front of password length requirements and security question and answer, it only tells you if you get it wrong. Two lines of onscreen instruction would simplify this process.

Once you finally set up your login information, you have to set up an archive. After that, it's just a matter of dragging and dropping items to your archive. There are many additional steps to share items, and each person must have a SecurDataStor user name. You can set various permissions to documents, allowing other users to view and/or edit items. The program also includes options to create secure CDs and DVDs.

This wasn't the easiest-to-use program we've tried. While the sharing capabilities are somewhat unique, it just seems easier to set editing rights with the document itself and send it as a regular encrypted file. Overall, this program seems somewhat disjointed. There are too many disparate elements, and too little time during the trial period to figure out how they all work together. Novices should definitely steer clear of this program. Other users might find it's more time and trouble than it's worth.