Summary:

  • Encryption is a way of converting data into a form that cannot be read by unauthorized people. This can be used to protect sensitive information, such as financial data and medical records.

  • There are many different encryption tools available for Windows, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

  • Some of the best encryption tools for Windows include:

  1. 7-Zip: A free and open-source file archiver that can also be used to encrypt files. 256-bit AES cipher encryption. GNU LGPL license.

  2. VeraCrypt: A free and open-source disk encryption tool that can be used to encrypt entire drives or partitions. Cross-compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Whole-drive, USB, file-container, plausible deniability encryption. Independently audited.

  3. Age: A modern file encryption format and tool that uses a strong encryption algorithm. Command line interface. XChaCha20-Poly1305 encryption.

  4. Gpg4win: A free and open-source encryption tool that supports a variety of encryption standards. Files and emails. File encryption and digital signatures.

  5. BitLocker: A disk encryption feature that is built into (and only free on) Windows 10 Pro+ and 11 Pro+.

  6. Cryptomator: A free and open-source cloud encryption tool that allows you to encrypt your data before it is uploaded to the cloud. Periodic independent security audits.

  • When choosing an encryption tool, it is important to consider your specific needs and requirements. Some factors to consider include the type of data you need to protect, the level of security you need, and your budget.

  • It is also important to use a strong password and to keep your encryption keys safe.

The article also recommends that you go through the homepage of each app to learn more about it before you choose one. This will help you find the best tool for your needs.

  • Ok, can you explain me a bit more please. I had some old knowledge that truecrypt was forced to add a backdoor in their last version. So that they themselves recommended the version before last. And that the fork Veracrypt is infiltrated most likely with a government backdoor. Didn’t snowden comments on this?

    Just some back of the head knowledge. I’m open to learning updated info on that.

    • As far as I’m aware, the Truecrypt backdoor thing was speculation regarding the termination of the Truecrypt project, but it was not confirmed. You can see here that development of Truecrypt ceased in 2014. Veracrypt was forked around that time. As for whether or not you can trust it, you’ll want to evaluate the audits that have been performed and decide if you trust them. You can find a link to what seems like the latest audit here.