How do you encrypt files in a Zip file with WinZip?

WinZip provides two alternatives for encrypting files.

The most efficient way to encrypt files is to do so while you are adding them to a Zip file (.zip or .zipx).

To encrypt files while they are being added simply check the Encrypt added files check box in the Add dialog. Before adding the files, WinZip will display the Encrypt dialog, where you will specify the password and Encryption method. When you add files to a Zip file from Windows Explorer, you will have an option to encrypt the files if the Add dialog is displayed.

Note: In some cases, however (e.g., when you choose Add to recently used Zip file), there is no Add dialog and therefore no opportunity to encrypt the files while they are being added. In these cases, you can encrypt files after they have been added.

To encrypt files already in a Zip file:

1. Open the Zip file in the Classic interface
2. Click Encrypt on the Actions menu

OR

1. Right click on the Zip file in My Computer, Windows Explorer, or Computer (in Vista)
2. Select WinZip
3. Select Encrypt

In either case, WinZip will ask for a password and encryption method and then encrypt all files currently in the Zip file.

If a file in the Zip file is already encrypted, it will first be decrypted and then re-encrypted using the password and encryption method you specified. WinZip will first try to decrypt the file using the current password; if the file cannot be decrypted with this password, WinZip will ask you for the correct password. If you are unable to supply the correct password, the file can be skipped, and it will remain unchanged in the Zip file. The password you entered in the Encrypt dialog box will remain active until either you delete or replace it, or you close the archive.