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Useful apps · 7-Zip

7-Zip: Create an Encrypted 7z Archive

Compress multiple files and set AES-256 encryption and file-name encryption to securely transfer them. This guide covers installation, practical steps, limitations, and how to stop using the app.

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7-Zip: Create an Encrypted 7z Archive overview: When to use it, Install the official version, Try it, Use it safely, Turn it off or restore settings
An overview of this guide’s steps and checks, not a screenshot of the app.

Who this guide is for and what to prepare

  • First-time users of 7-Zip
  • People who want to check the storage location and safety of data while reducing manual work

What you need

  • Check the processing target and storage location, and preserve the original data in another location
  • Check the official distribution source, supported OS, and required permissions

When to use it

Compress multiple files and set AES-256 encryption and file-name encryption to securely transfer them.

Install the official version

  1. Select the Windows version that matches your CPU at 7-zip.org, and after installation, right-click on the target and check the 7-Zip menu.

Try it

First, check the format that the recipient can open. Even if you use AES-256 in ZIP format, you may not be able to open it with just the built-in extraction tools, so please check the compatible software.

  1. Right-click the target and open [7-Zip] → [Add to archive]
  2. Select 7z or ZIP as the archive format and choose the destination
  3. When encrypting, specify the password and method. If you want to use file-name encryption, select 7z format.
  4. Select [OK] to create the archive
  5. Extract to another folder and open all files

Use it safely

There is no recovery function in case the password is lost. Don't send the password in the same email, and check the recipient's format.

Turn it off or restore settings

Compression is an operation that creates a new archive file, so the original file remains separately. When the archive is no longer needed, check the original documents that can be extracted and opened, and then organize the archive only. Even if you close 7-Zip, the 7z or ZIP you created will not be automatically deleted.

Limitations and requirements

  • There is no recovery function in case the password is lost. Don't send passwords in the same email, and check the recipient's format as well.
  • Check the current specifications in the official documentation and reconfirm on-screen what you want to delete or overwrite.

Frequently asked questions

How do you choose between ZIP and 7z?

ZIP is easy to open in many environments, and 7z requires compatible software on the receiving side as well. With 7z, you can choose to encrypt file names, but the same settings cannot be used with ZIP.

What if you forget your encryption passphrase?

7-Zip does not have a password reset feature. Store the necessary original documents separately and prepare a management method to remember them before encrypting them.

Official sources and verification date

Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.

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