RAR files are compressed archives that can contain hundreds of files. RAR is very popular due to its large compressible file size, as well as its powerful built-in encryption. With just a few clicks, you can encrypt and add a protective password to any RAR archive. Without the correct password, unauthorized users won't even be able to see the names of the files it contains.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Windows
Step 1. Download and install WinRAR
This program allows you to create RAR archives that can be password protected. WinRAR is not a free program, but you can use the trial version for 40 days before you have to buy it if you want to keep using it. You can download WinRAR from rarlab.com/download.htm.
- Click here for detailed instructions on how to install WinRAR.
- Do not select the "Get WinRAR FREE with TrialPay" option. It will try to install adware on your computer.
Step 2. Add your files to the new RAR archive
There are a few different ways you can do this:
- Open a WinRAR window and browse to the file you want to add. Select all the files, then click the "Add" button.
- Select all the files you want to archive in Windows. Right-click on the file of your choice and select "Add to archive…".
Step 3. Name your archive
By default, the file will be named the same as the name of the folder where the file is located.
Step 4. Click the button
Set passwords….
It's on the General tab of the "Archive name and parameters" window that appears when you create a new archive.
Step 5. Enter your password
Enter the password again to confirm. You can check the "Show password" box to see the characters you typed.
Click here for detailed instructions on how to create a strong password
Step 6. Check the "Encrypt file names" box
This will ensure that no one can see the file names contained in the RAR file until they have successfully entered the password.
Step 7. Click
OK to save your password.
Click OK in the "Archive name and parameters" window to create a new RAR file.
Step 8. Test your file
Once the RAR file is created, you can double-click the file to test it. When trying to extract it, you will be asked to enter the password you created.
Method 2 of 2: Mac
Step 1. Download and install Simply RAR
This is a lightweight archive program that can create simple RAR files. It's not as good as WinRAR on Windows because the RAR format was developed by RARLAB, the company behind WinRAR.
WinRAR also has a Mac version, but it's still in beta and only supports Terminal. You can download it from rarlab.com/download.htm. Do not select the "Get WinRAR FREE with TrialPay" option. This will try to install adware on your computer
Step 2. Run the SimplyRAR program
A window will appear allowing you to add files to the new RAR file.
Step 3. Add files to the RAR file
You can drag and drop any files you want into the SimplyRAR window to add them to the list of files to be compressed and archived.
Step 4. Check the "Password protect" box
This will tell SimplyRAR that you want to add a password when the RAR file is created.
Step 5. Enter the password
After checking the box, you will be asked to create a password. You must enter it twice in order to use it.
Click here for detailed instructions on how to create a strong password
Step 6. Click "Create RAR"
You will be asked to name the file and choose where you want it to be saved.
Note: Unlike WinRAR, you are not given the option to encrypt the filename when adding a password to protect the RAR file
Step 7. Test your file
Once the RAR file is created, you can double-click the file to test it. When trying to extract it, you will be asked to enter the password you created.
