How to password directories

[gf4200isdabest]

I often let people use my computer while I'm not there. However, i would rather that they didn't have access to certain directories such as my personal tax documents. Is there an easy way to password protect folders (either with some windows feature or some third party program) on my hard drive? I assume that I'd need a 3rd party program so can someone recommend a good one (preferrably free)?

(Using Windows XP Pro)

 

[Verdant]

the easiest way would be to setup another user account and not provide them access to those folders, then logout whenever you are not using your machine...

the other free option is to use zip files... but that can be a pain if you use the files frequently

there used to be a program called winguard for windows 9x systems, don't know if they ever made a ntfs version.

edit: here is winguard... looks like there is a free version now
but i haven't tested it, so use at your own risk

http://www.winguardpro.com/wgpro/wgp_dl.htm

 

[gf4200isdabest]

That lets me password individual files but not hide/password the folder as a whole

 

[Verdant]

i'm out of ideas for you then

 

[eigen]

Check over in Software I answered this yesterday and the day before.......

 

[mikecel79]

Still think your better off setting up a user account for other users and just use NTFS permissions to not allow them into the folder. These password protecting folder programs aren't usually the most stable programs.