Password Protect Archive — Encrypt ZIP and 7Z Files
Add password protection and AES-256 encryption to ZIP and 7Z archives. Secure your files before sharing. Free online tool.
Sharing sensitive files? Adding a password to your archive ensures only the intended recipient can access the contents. The MyPDF Password Archive tool encrypts your files with AES-256 and packages them into a password-protected ZIP or 7Z archive.
How to Password Protect an Archive
- Upload — Drag your files into the tool.
- Configure — Choose the archive format (ZIP or 7Z), set a strong password, and select the encryption method.
- Download — Save the encrypted archive and share it securely. Send the password through a separate channel.
Encryption Methods Compared
| Method | Format | Strength | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| AES-256 | ZIP | Strong | Most modern unzip tools |
| ZipCrypto | ZIP | Weak (legacy) | Universal, including old tools |
| AES-256 | 7Z | Strong | Requires 7-Zip or compatible |
| 7Z header encryption | 7Z | Strongest (hides filenames) | Requires 7-Zip or compatible |
Practical Tips
- Always use AES-256. ZipCrypto is available for backward compatibility but can be cracked with readily available tools. AES-256 is the secure choice.
- Use 7Z for maximum security. Unlike ZIP, 7Z can encrypt filenames in addition to file contents, so even the file list is hidden without the password.
- Send the password separately. Never include the password in the same email or message as the archive. Use a different channel such as a phone call, SMS, or a secure messaging app.
Can the recipient open a password-protected ZIP without special software?
AES-256 encrypted ZIPs can be opened by Windows Explorer (Windows 11), macOS Archive Utility, and most popular unzip tools. ZipCrypto-encrypted ZIPs have the broadest compatibility but weaker security.
Can I add a password to an existing archive?
Upload your existing archive and the tool will re-encrypt it with the password you specify. Alternatively, extract the files first with the Extract ZIP or Extract 7Z tool, then re-archive with a password.
Is there a way to recover a forgotten password?
No. AES-256 encryption cannot be bypassed without the correct password. Always store archive passwords in a password manager.
Related Tools
- Create ZIP — Create ZIP archives without encryption.
- Create 7Z — Create 7Z archives with strong compression.
- Protect PDF — Add password protection to PDF files.
- Extract ZIP — Extract files from ZIP archives.