Users are still dreaming about a Windows version that gives them the possibility to protect with a password certain folders, but until that happens, meet Folder Guard, a stand-alone app that could do that quite easy.

Specifically designed to protect folders with passwords, Folder Guard installs and runs in a minute, but it’s very important to pay attention to every single step.

In fact, even developers seem to be extra cautious, warning the user every time that in case he forgets the password, he may lose access to the protected folder. That’s why the installer also attempts to create a restore point, trying to help the user stay on the safe side and protect his data in case of accidents.

Folder Guard is thus able to protect a desired folder with a password and it’s not at all difficult to configure the application. There’s a wizard to guide you through the whole process, letting you set up not only the password to the respective folder, but also the one for protecting the app per se.

There’s a second way to guard your files though. Folder Guard comes with a file explorer right in the main window, so it’s enough to browse to your folder and right click it for instant protection.

In addition, you can change its attributes and make it read-only, provide full access or restrict access entirely unless you say otherwise.

In case there’s an accident and you lose your password, and we all know that such accidents happen every once in a while, don’t worry. Folder Guard gives you the option to create an emergency recovery app that could be copied on a CD or on a USB flash drive to let you reset the password in a second.

All in all, it’s all about security these days, and until Microsoft will finally decide to work on this particular feature, Folder Guard remains one of the best alternatives for users who want to protect their data.