By Gina Barrow, Last updated: April 24, 2020
- Free File Encryption Software Mac Download
- Free File Encryption Software Mac Version
- Free File Encryption Software Mac Computers
- Free File Encryption Software Mac
Encryption is the safest and best way to protect data as it encodes a certain file or information in such a way that only authorized users or those with passwords can access. Information including bank details, sensitive personal records should be encrypted to avoid data theft.
Computer operating systems have built-in encryption features but these provide easy to medium form of security and still prone to expert hackers. You need to invest in encryption software if it is a requirement for your type of usage. Here are the top 5 best encryption software for Macin 2020. Check out which one works for your needs.
Jul 27, 2021 Other Encryption Software to consider. Concealer is a file encryption program specifically for Apple Mac computers. Rather than encrypt all files on your harddrive, instead it provides an. MEO File Encryption Software Encrypt and decrypt files and keep your data secure. MEO is easy file encryption software for Mac or Windows that will encrypt or decrypt files of any type. Protect sensitive data against unauthorized viewers with the latest data encryption technologies to keep your important documents safe and secure.
Keep all your macOS devices safe. No need to pick and choose — with NordLocker, you can protect every macOS device you own. Simply download our file encryption software for Mac, add files to your locker, and enjoy data security at home, in the office, or in the cloud. Encryption software for mac free download - MEO Free File Encryption for Mac, WinZip Mac, Avast Free Mac Security, and many more programs. Set up Time Machine or another backup method to regularly back up your Mac to a secure external source. A free, open source program that allows for disk encryption, with an easy to use interface. File encryption software for users of Mac OS X 10.3 and later editions.
Part 1. Why Need to Encrypt Mac Files?
All vital files stored inside a computer including Mac need to be encrypted for security purposes. If you happen to hear, watch, and read the news, there are reported cases of stolen identities and bank information due to unsecured files saved inside people’s stolen laptops and computers.
To avoid such hassle, you can rely on encryption software for Mac but the main concern here is what the best software to use is.
Part 2. Apple’s Encryption Software for Mac for free
If you are concerned about data privacy and your Mac contains sensitive information that must be kept personal, then you should use encryption. Apple has its own encryption software that users can utilize for free. There are actually different ways on how to encrypt files on Mac.
Encryption via Disk Utility
- Use the spotlight search and type in Disk Utility. You can also go to Utilities under Applications.
- Go to File on the topmost tools and hover to New Image then click on Image from Folder
- Select the folder you wish to encrypt from the newly popped-up window
- Rename the file you want to encrypt and go to the bottom part where you can set the encryption settings
- You can choose between the 128 and the 256-bit. (The higher the encryption the better but it takes slower time to complete request)
- Once you have selected your encryption method, you need to provide and verify your password. (Note: Remember your password because it will never grant you access to the given folder until the correct password is supplied). Click Choose.
- For the Image format, you can choose compressed.
- Wait until the encryption is completed.
This type of encryption affects the folder and its file contents so anytime you wish to open the folder and the files inside, you need to provide the password.
- You can now see a new Archive folder on the desktop which was the same file you encrypted
- You can delete the old folder to remove any access to it
People Also ReadHow to Clean up A MacHow Do You Speed Up Your Mac?
Use FileVault
FileVault is full-disk encryption that uses XTS-AES-128 encryption with a 256-bit key to preventing unauthorized access to your personal information on the startup disk. Basically, you won’t be able to go through Mac unless you provide the password.
The FileVault2 is available in OS X Lion and later versions. All you need to take advantage of this feature is to turn on FileVault in your Mac. Here’s how:
- Go to Security & Privacy under System Preferences
- Click the FileVault tab and click on the lock icon
- Enter the administration username and password
- Turn on FileVault
If you are using multiple users on Mac, you can enable each user and type in their assigned password.
Print to PDF
Another file encryption method in Mac is the Print to PDF wherein you can do the security lock on the print window itself after creating or editing certain file/s.
- Go to Print
- Choose PDF
- Click Save as PDF
- Before saving it, go to Security Options
- Check the box for your desired password security measures
- Don’t forget to verify the password and click Save
Part 3. The Best Encryption Software for Mac in 2020
In the sea of many software and applications, there seems to be plenty of programs dedicated to single-use or single-function. They are good because they focus on one solution, however, they also cost more expensive.
If you browse thoroughly, you will discover that there are a few applications that offer sets of operations and toolkits specially designed for Mac. FoneDog PowerMyMac - Cleaner provides comprehensive modules dedicated to Mac OS. It has three powerful modules: Toolkit, Status, and Cleaner.
Inside FoneDogPowerMyMac-Cleaner Toolkit, there is a robust function called Hide and Encrypt Files. This feature allows you to create a password-protected folder and store sensitive files in it by drag and drop. It lets you turn on and off in case you may not use the feature.
- User-friendly
- Free download version
- Auto-lock setup
- Uses the safest encryption system
How cool is that? This program has made an easier way to protect you from possible data theft.
Part 4. Other Mac Encryption Tools
Apart from FoneDog PowerMyMac-Cleaner, there is other top performing software that also provides convenience and security.
Hider 2
Hider2 has the ability to hide and encrypt data on your Mac securely including notes, documents, photos, etc. One of its positive scores is the user-friendly interface which suits beginner to average users.
- Provides auto-lock feature when the user is inactive or idled
- Uses AES-256 encryption for the safest system
Cisdem AppCrypt
Cisdem AppCrypt offers both website and app encryption system that locks you apps and accessed websites with passwords. It creates a blacklist for suspicious access and whitelist for trusted users. However, it does not have the file encryption ability that sets passwords for the desired file and folders.
- Keeps a list of login attempts to let you know who opens your apps
- User-friendly
GNU Privacy Guard
GNU Privacy Guard is hybrid Mac encryption software that uses a combination of standard symmetric-key cryptography and public-key cryptography. It mainly features a versatile key management system to protect your personal privacy and the privacy of the people you are communicating with.
- Versatile (has Windows and Mac versions)
- Free Software
However, since it provides you with a private key for safekeeping, you might end up having a hard time figuring out how to decode it once the keys are lost.
Concealer
Concealer is another trusted name in terms of hiding files and encryption. It provides an automatic password assistant that generates “strong” passwords. One of its main advantages is providing and organizing folders by having default templates for various accounts such as bank accounts, email, software registration, and more.
- Customizable auto-lock system
- Easy to use with drag and drop features
- Uses the master password and assigns separate or individual passwords to each file inside
Part 5. Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Encryption Software for Mac
I know you may have gotten confused on which program to use or will work best for you after reading through the different software you can choose from. There is plenty of encryption software for Mac; however, bear in mind that you need to consider quality and multi-function when it comes to having a “good buy”.
You need a program that provides an all-in-one solution that you can rely on when things go rough on your device. I recommend using FoneDog PowerMyMac for the following factors:
- Security– It the important concern above all. You have to be keen about how these programs work to secure your files and your Mac overall.
- Encryption– Based on the above-mentioned encryption data, there are different types of password-protection format. Choose the one that provides the safest and considers your files their topmost priority.
- Encryption Speed- Consider a program that can encrypt even your large files at the shortest period of time. We know that large files take a while to be fully encrypted so you need software that can minimize the time constraints.
- Software License- Although free programs are good such as the GNU Privacy Guard, an open source software, you need to consider that free software is not entirely best for your needs since everyone can download it. The same thing goes for paid programs; you have to be extra cautious on how much it costs and its corresponding features. To be sure, you can take advantage of their free-trial versions first so you can determine if it works for you or not.
Part 6. Conclusions
We care so much about data privacy and we understand how crucial it is to be well-protected. You cannot simply store important files in your Mac especially when you have multiple users or you plan to sell it later on.
We know how much you want to protect your files from prying eyes and suspicious people that is why we have compiled and researched the different programs that can help you secure them. The encryption software for Mac we listed has their own Pros and Cons where you can assess according to their features.
Simply choose a program that will password-protect your files, optimize your system, and provide you with complete troubleshooting toolkit. Do you have any other concerns regarding encryption software for Mac? Please write your concerns in the comments below!
The data on your Mac, which is important, can be vulnerable to prying eyes or malicious hackers, etc. Luckily, encryption software is here to help. Encryption is a good way to protect your data. This article will talk about the best encryption software for Mac to protect your apps, emails, disks, folders, files and other important or sensitive data. There’s even free Mac encryption software, which will also be covered in the article.
Why do we encrypt?
You may keep sensitive information, personal or work related, on your Mac, such as personal photos, critical bank information or business documents etc., which if leaked or stolen, could potentially lead to fraud, blackmail, identity theft or other threats. Encryption makes your information inaccessible or unreadable by an unauthorized third party. That’s why Mac encryption apps can be helpful if not necessary.
8 best encryption software for Mac 2021
#1 Cisdem AppCrypt — the best app encryption software for Mac
Cisdem AppCrypt for Mac is the best encryption software when it comes to keeping apps safe from others, due to its high ease of use and effectiveness. You may want to encrypt certain apps (e.g. Photos) when others can access your Mac so as to protect privacy.
AppCrypt helps you easily and safely lock apps without modification on any system or application files. You just need to set a strong password to protect your apps from unapproved access and usage. If someone tries to open an encrypted app and enters a wrong password, the software will record the failed attempt with date and time and take a photo of the intruder. In addition to encrypting apps, it can also stop unauthorized access to specific websites.
AppCrypt
- Encrypt any apps such as Photos, Messages, Notes, Mail, Quicken, etc.
- Record failed attempts to open locked apps with time, date and photos of intruders
- Block websites and webpages on Safari and Google Chrome
- Provide a useful schedule feature
- Hard to bypass and easy to use
- Help guard privacy, block unwanted websites and more
- Can be used for privacy protection, productivity, parental control, etc.
- Support macOS 10.10 or later
Steps to encrypt apps on Mac with the software
1. Download AppCrypt and install it.
2. When you open the software for the first time, set a password. Read the warning before you submit the password.
3. Click the software’s icon and choose Open Main Window.
4. In the main window, click Add App. Select the apps that you want encrypt and click Add. Alternatively, you can do it by dragging apps into the left sidebar.
Now the selected Mac apps are protected by password and become inaccessible. To turn off encryption, in the left sidebar of the main window, select the app and then click Remove App.
Want to make the encryption even more effective? Here’s a tip. In the top right corner of the main window, click Menu > Preferences. Enable Launch at system startup.
Pros
- Password protect any apps on your Mac effectively
- Record unauthorized attempts to access the protected apps
- Also block websites and webpages with password
- Easy to use with intuitive interface
#2 GNU Privacy Guard — the best email encryption software for Mac
GNU Privacy Guard (also known as GPG or GnuPG) is the best free software for email encryption. In addition to macOS, it’s available for Windows, Linux and more.
GPG, which is PGP-based, uses two forms of encryption: symmetric-key cryptography and public-key cryptography, bringing good speed and security. It can encrypt both email messages and attached files such as PDF documents and images. Once an email is encrypted by it, only the sender and recipient are able to see the content.
Note that this piece of email encryption software can encrypt only the content of your email but not its subject line. If it’s a confidential email, make sure that the subject line doesn’t give away anything.
Steps to encrypt email on Mac with the software
1. Install the software on your Mac.
2. Generate a key pair and distribute your own public key.
3. Import someone else’s public key.
4. Drag other people’s public key into the system as recipients, and then encrypt your email on Mac.
You should decrypt an email with your private key.
For more details, you can go to GPG's website.
Pros
- Free Mac encryption software for Mac
- Support expiring signatures and paired keys
- Encrypt emails and other data
- Support multiple algorithms
- Cross-platform
#3 FileVault — the best disk encryption software for Mac
FileVault is a piece of Mac encryption software for users of Mac OS X 10.7 Lion or later. It is a method of using encryption with volumes on Mac computers. Encryption and decryption are performed on the fly.
FileVault 2 is the newer version that can encrypt the entire macOS startup volume and typically includes the home directory, abandoning the disk image approach. You can use FileVault 2 to help prevent access to documents and other data stored on your startup disk.
While a user’s account password could unlock the FileVault encryption when logging into the Mac, the user would also need to create a “Master Password” in the event that the user account password was lost.
Steps to encrypt disk on Mac with the software
1. Go to System Preferences.
2. Go to the Security & Privacy pane.
3. Select the FileVault tab.
4. Click the lock to make changes and click the Turn On FileVault... button.
Pros
- Mac’s built-in encryption software
- Allow you to keep unwanted visitors away
- Automatically clean up unnecessary system files
- Use the XTS-AES 128-block cipher
Cons
- Encrypt only the home folder (The files outside the home folder would be totally unprotected in the event of theft or other unauthorized access.)
#4 VeraCrypt — the best file encryption software for Mac
VeraCrypt, open-source file encryption software, is used for on-the-fly encryption. It can create a virtual encrypted disk or container within a file or encrypt a partition or the entire storage device. The software is available for macOS, Windows and Linux.
The software is a fork of the TrueCrypt project (which is discontinued). There have been many improvements and optimizations since its initial release in 2013.
VeraCrypt supports AES, Twofish, Serpent and some other well-known encryption ciphers. It supports the creation of hidden, encrypted volumes within other volumes.
Steps to encrypt files on Mac with the software
1. Download and install the file encrypt software on your Mac. Open it.
2. Select a slot and click Create Volume.
3. Choose to create an encrypted file container and set it to be a standard volume. Specify a location on your computer.
4. Choose a desired encryption algorithm and set the volume size.
5. Now set a volume password.
6. Once the encrypted volume is created, you can use it to encrypt the files on your Mac.
Pros
- Free and open-source
- On-the-fly encryption
- Excel at encrypting Mac files
- Help prevent data leaks and theft
- Cross-platform
#5 Disk Utility — the best Mac software for folder encryption
Included with macOS, Disk Utility allows users to effortlessly and effectively encrypt folders, which makes it the best free folder encryption software for Mac.
It offers two types of encryption: 128-bit AES encryption and 256-bit AES encryption. The former should be enough for most users. If you want an even higher level of security, you can choose the latter.
There are to ways to do the encryption: directly encrypting an existing Mac folder (via the Image from Folder option) or creating an encrypted container or more precisely disk image for folders (via the Blank Image option).
Steps to encrypt folders on Mac with the software
1. On your MacBook Pro, MacBook Air or iMac, etc., open Disk Utility.
2. From the menu bar, select File > New Image > Image from Folder.
3. Select the folder that you want to encrypt and click Choose.
4. Choose a location to store the encrypted folder. Select a desired type of encryption and set a password.
5. Select an Image Format. Here I choose read/write so that I can add files to this encrypted Mac folder.
6. Click Save. And the software will start encrypting.
Pros
- Built-in to Mac and free to use
- Easy to encrypt and decrypt
- Give users enough options
#6 Finder — the best Mac software for USB encryption
Since macOS Mojave, you can encrypt and decrypt USB flash drives (aka thumb drives) or USB-connected hard drives via Finder without erasing data. It’s a piece of free encryption software for Mac that inherits the same XTS-AES encryption as FileVault 2. Once you encrypt data on your removable drives, this Mac encryption software won’t let you access them without a correct passphrase.
Steps to encrypt USB drive on Mac with the software
1. Plug USB flash drive into your Mac computer.
2. Launch the Finder app.
3. Control-click the disk icon in the left sidebar.
4. Click Encrypt (name of your USB) in the dropdown menu.
5. Enter a password and encrypt the drive.
Pros
- Built-in to Mac, requiring no installation
- Easy to use
Cons
- Won’t see the encryption option if you haven’t formatted the USB flash drive through GUID partition map before
#7 Unarchiver — the best Mac software for ZIP file encryption
Unarchiver is a compression and decompression program. Also, it can be used as the best compression program to encrypt files. The software creates password protected zipped files on Mac in one click and makes working with three formats of compressed files easy.
You can pack all your important files in an encrypted, password protected archive by compressing your file and selecting a password to protect your archived file.
Steps to encrypt ZIP file on Mac with the software
1. Download and install the Zip encryption software on Mac.
2. Click on the iPack icon.
3. Add the files to the new pop up dialog.
4. Click on the Compress icon.
5. It will ask you to rename the ZIP file, and from this dialog, you can also set a password to protect your files.
Pros
- Zip and unzip files on Mac
- Open RAR, Zip, 7-zip, ISO, TAR and CHM files etc.
- Offer solid encryption for archives
#8 CloudMounter — the best Mac software for online data encryption
CloudMounter is designed to organize various cloud servers and connecting to web servers. It keeps your online data protected without unauthorized access and supports services like Dropbox, OneDrive, Google Drive and Amazon S3 etc.
Steps to encrypt online data on Mac with the software
1. Choose Encrypt from the context menu.
2. Type a password and verify it.
3. Tick the optional boxes and click on the Encrypt button.
Pros
- Mount the big cloud services
- Reliably encrypt and protect cloud files
Free File Encryption Software Mac Download
Factors to consider when choosing the best encryption software for Mac
The type of encryption you need Some encryption apps such as AppCrypt are good at protect your apps, some excel at protecting files and folders, and some have a reputation for email encryption. It depends on your needs.
The level of security There are various encryption algorithms. Different apps may use different algorithms. Some are weak (but still helpful enough for many), and some are stronger. Certain Mac encryption apps with stronger security may be a bit hard to set up and use for inexperienced users.
Encryption speed The speed is a factor that many people would consider. When it comes to encrypting large files or even entire drives, the speed is particularly important.
Free File Encryption Software Mac Version
Ease of use Encryption software that is too complex can be overwhelming to a novice. An intuitive and user-friendly one is better.
Open-source software or not There are some free encryption software for you to choose, but free things are not necessarily good, similarly, encryption programs you need to pay are not always good, but you always get choices to try the applications for free before you pay for it.
Free File Encryption Software Mac Computers
Final words
Free File Encryption Software Mac
The above are the top 8 Mac encryption apps. All of them have their own features, advantages, and disadvantages. Before deciding which one to use, you’d better tested them to better understand the functions, speed, and compatibility. If the key feature satisfies your demands, you can first try the encryption software for Mac to lock your apps, emails, files, folders, USB drives, or other items.