SecureZIP for Windows

SecureZIP is a program that allows users to create ZIP files that are secured by a password or security certificate. Although the program functions well, its interface could be more intuitive.

SecureZIP is not just another encryption tool; it comes packed with features tailored to meet the security needs of today's digital world. It offers persistent encryption, which means it locks files individually, keeping them safe even when they move from one place to another. Users appreciate the flexibility in choosing how to secure their data, either through passwords or security certificates.

One of the standout features of SecureZIP is its data compression capability, which can reduce file sizes by up to 95%. This makes managing large amounts of data much easier. It also supports X.509 and OpenPGP encryption, providing strong protection that integrates seamlessly into daily workflows. Additionally, cross-platform operability allows authorized users to access and decrypt encrypted files across any company system.

SecureZIP helps businesses implement uniform security policies efficiently. Consistent policies across the company ensure that all data is handled and protected uniformly. 

Here is a deeper look into its features. The interface is sleek and clean, with a reasonable number of buttons, which are labeled. But the way the program works just isn't immediately clear. If we want to create a new ZIP file, do we click New, as in new ZIP file? Or perhaps Open, to select the documents we want to include in the ZIP file? No, it turns out, we want to Add. We selected a folder full of documents that we wanted to convert to a ZIP file, chose a file name and destination, and then selected a password to restrict access. The process was quick and easy, and the contents of our new ZIP file were indeed password-protected. The program's built-in Help file is well-written and thorough. In addition to basic password-protection, SecureZIP allows users to create and use security certificates. We were especially impressed by how easily--in fact, automatically--the program integrates with Microsoft Office; we had only to restart Word once SecureZIP was installed, and the program appeared under the Prepare menu, ready to turn our Word documents into encrypted ZIP files. Overall, we like the program's versatility and ease of use, but we wish that the interface were a little more intuitive.

SecureZIP has a 30-day trial period. It installs desktop icons without asking but uninstalls cleanly. We recommend this program to all users.

• Version 12.50.13 is compatible with Windows 7, features redesigned graphical interface, with a choice of traditional or new fluent ribbon.