How to password protect a zip on my macbook pro?

PeretrZriouly wrote:

Rayokc379 wrote:

I am using the default compressing feature on my Macbook frequently. And it works fine all the ways. However, I need to make a new zip archive and password protect the zip for security reason. Can I do this with the default compress option on my Mac?

Yep, I totally get wanting to add a layer of security to your zip files. The default compress option on your MacBook won't let you password-protect directly, but fear not, your trusty Mac still has a way to do it. Just requires a little trip to the Terminal! Here's how:

Step 1. Open Terminal:

You can find it in the Applications > Utilities folder or just search for it using Spotlight.

Step 2. Navigate to the File's Location (optional step if the file isn't on your desktop):

Use the cd command followed by the directory path. For instance, if the file is in the Downloads folder, you'd type cd Downloads and hit Enter.

Step 4. Zip & Password Protect1. :

Type zip -e [name-of-new-zip-file].zip [original-file-or-folder-name]

2. For example: zip -e mysecurefile.zip mydoc.txt

3. Press Enter, and Terminal will then ask you to set and verify your password.

Done!: You'll now have a password-protected zip archive in the same directory as your original file/folder.

Just a heads-up, don't forget that password because recovering it can be a real pain!

Hope that helps, and stay secure! 😊🔒

Thanks for the steps and I followed the instructions carefully. However, when I was trying to open this password protected on another PC, WinZip says the file is damaged and there is no way to open the file. Anythought?