Almost every user is aware of the need to restrict access to data processed on a computer. However, not wanting to face difficulties, few people pay attention to this problem. Meanwhile, its solution does not necessarily imply the use of information encryption programs. So, you can close a folder from public access in Windows using the means of the operating system itself.
Necessary
Windows computer
Instructions
Step 1
Start Windows Explorer. This can be done by clicking on the shortcut, which is usually located in the "Accessories" category of the "Programs" section of the "Start" menu. If this shortcut is not there, open the "Run the program" dialog by selecting the "Run" item of the same menu. Type explorer.exe in the text box and press Enter
Step 2
In Explorer, find the directory you want to close from public access. Expand the nodes in the hierarchy shown in the Folders panel, starting with My Computer. Select the required directory by clicking on it with the mouse
Step 3
Display the properties dialog of the found folder. Click on the element selected in the third step with the right mouse button. A context menu will appear. Select "Properties" in it
Step 4
Close the folder from public access to local and network users. In the properties dialog switch to the "Access" tab. In the group of controls "Local Sharing and Security" activate the option "Unshare this folder". Deactivate the "Share this folder" option in the "Network Sharing and Security" group. Click on the "Apply" button
Step 5
Start protecting your folder with encryption using the operating system. This will prevent anyone other than the one logged in with the current account from accessing its contents. Switch to the "General" tab of the properties dialog. Click on the "Others …" button
Step 6
Turn on encryption for the selected directory. Check the "Encrypt content to protect data" option in the "Additional Attributes" dialog
Step 7
Begin the process of encrypting the folder data. Click the OK button in the current dialog. Click the OK button in the properties dialog. The Attribute Change Confirmation window appears. Select the option "To this folder and to all subfolders and files" in it and click the OK button again
Step 8
Wait for the encryption process to complete the contents of the folder. The progress indicator of the task will be displayed in the "Apply attributes …" dialog.
