Encryption software converts readable data into unreadable ciphertext that can only be decrypted with the correct key (password). Strong encryption software protects files, hard drives, and communications from unauthorized access.
This overview helps you find the right software for your use case.
Encryption Standards: What Powers These Programs
Reputable encryption software uses the following standards:
| Standard | Key Length | Security | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| AES-128 | 128 Bit | Very good | Standard for many tools |
| AES-256 | 256 Bit | Excellent | Military, authorities, recommended |
| ChaCha20 | 256 Bit | Excellent | Mobile devices, AES alternative |
| RSA-2048+ | 2048+ Bit | Very good | Asymmetric, key exchange |
| Twofish | 256 Bit | Very good | AES finalist, alternative choice |
The Best Encryption Programs at a Glance
VeraCrypt (Recommended: Drives & Containers)
- What it does: Full disk encryption, encrypted containers, external drives
- Cost: Free, open source
- Encryption: AES-256, Twofish, Serpent (also combinable)
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Special feature: Hidden Volumes (plausible deniability under duress)
- Ideal for: Advanced users, journalists, activists, enterprises
More: Encrypt Folder → | Encrypt USB Drive →
Cryptomator (Recommended: Cloud Encryption)
- What it does: Encrypted vault in cloud folders (Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive)
- Cost: Desktop free, mobile ~€15 one-time
- Encryption: AES-256
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Ideal for: Private users who use cloud services
More: Encrypt Cloud Data →
BitLocker (Built into Windows)
- What it does: Full disk and drive encryption
- Cost: Free (Windows Pro/Enterprise only)
- Encryption: AES-128 or AES-256
- Platforms: Windows
- Ideal for: Windows Pro users
7-Zip (Simple File Encryption)
- What it does: Compress files/folders as encrypted archive
- Cost: Free, open source
- Encryption: AES-256
- Platforms: Windows (Linux/Mac via p7zip)
- Ideal for: Quickly encrypting individual files without setup
GNU Privacy Guard (GPG/PGP)
- What it does: Email encryption, file signing and encryption
- Cost: Free, open source
- Encryption: RSA, elliptic curves
- Platforms: All
- Ideal for: Email encryption, digital signatures
More: Encrypt Email → | Digital Signature →
Comparison Table
| Software | Use Case | Cost | OS | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VeraCrypt | Drives, Containers | Free | Win/Mac/Linux | Medium |
| Cryptomator | Cloud | Free | Win/Mac/Linux/Mobile | Easy |
| BitLocker | Drives | Free* | Windows | Easy |
| 7-Zip | Files | Free | Win | Easy |
| GPG | Free | All | High |
*Windows Pro only
Secure Passwords for Encryption Software
The security of encryption depends directly on password strength. AES-256 is mathematically unbreakable — but a weak password undermines that.
- At least 20 characters
- Password Generator
- Store in a password manager
- Paper backup stored in a secure location