Encrypt and Decrypt Files Using 7-Zip

Environment

7-Zip file compression software on Windows PC

Issue

I need to securely encrypt files for storage or sending using 7-Zip, but I am unsure how to properly encrypt and decrypt files with a strong password.

Resolution

To encrypt a file using 7-Zip on your Windows computer:

  1. Open 7-Zip and navigate to the file you want to encrypt.
  2. Right-click the file, select 7-Zip, then click Add to Archive…
  3. In the Encryption section, enter a strong password that meets the following criteria:
    • Minimum 8 characters
    • At least 1 uppercase letter
    • At least 1 lowercase letter
    • At least 1 number
  4. Confirm the password.
  5. Set the Encryption Method to AES-256.
  6. Click OK to create an encrypted .zip file in the same folder as the original file.

To decrypt a file using 7-Zip on your Windows computer:

  1. Save the encrypted .zip file to a location you can easily access (e.g., H: Drive).
  2. Open 7-Zip and navigate to the encrypted file.
  3. Double-click the .zip file to open it.
  4. Double-click the document inside the archive; you will be prompted to enter the password.
  5. Enter the agreed password to open and access the decrypted file.

Additional Information

For more details on 7-Zip encryption features, visit the official 7-Zip website: https://www.7-zip.org/.

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.

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