Encryption secures information by translating it into computer code that’s unreadable to those who don’t have the means to access the information. These means of access can include passwords, credentials, and authentication of some form. Though encryption could still be broken or cracked, strong encryption is nearly impenetrable.

SEE: Best Encryption Key Management Software (TechRepublic)

Securing data both stored and in-transit through encryption is essential as part of an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. There are various encryption options out there. Here are our top picks.

Top encryption software: Comparison table

Product NamePriceOffers SupportOffers Password ManagerOn-the-Fly DecryptionEnterprise-Grade Encryption
VeraCryptFreeNoNoYesNo
BitLockerFree with Windows OSYesUnknownNoYes
AxCrypt Premium$12.00 per month, per user for AxCrypt Business planYesYesYesYes
Trend Micro Endpoint EncryptionContact vendor but a license supporting 251 to 500 endpoints averages about $77-$83 per monthYesNoNoYes
NordLockerNordLocker Business for 1-year 2TB is priced at $29.99 per monthYesNoYesYes
Advanced Encryption PackageFully unlocked version: one-time fee of $49.95NoNoYesYes
ESET PROTECT CompleteContact vendor but can start at $462.16 for 5 devices, 1 year.YesNoYesYes

Top encryption software

VeraCrypt: Best overall

VeraCrypt logo.
Image: VeraCrypt

VeraCrypt is my pick as my best overall encryption solution. It’s a free disk encryption software that you can use on Linux, macOS, and Windows systems. It’s also an open-source service, which forks off the TrueCrypt project, adding features to help with secrecy.

VeraCrypt is my prime recommendation for privacy enthusiasts and tech-savvy consumers. I particularly like VeraCrypt due to it being open-source, wherein its source code is publicly available for easy spotting of vulnerabilities and points for improvement. Businesses that prioritize transparency and regular code audits in an encryption solution should have VeraCrypt high on its list.

Why I picked VeraCrypt

I chose VeraCrypt as my top solution for its easy hiding of encrypted data in sight, making internal resources more secure against prying eyes. In addition, it utilizes popular encryption algorithms and has wide support for multiple platforms.

Pricing

Free.

Features

  • Offers the ability to create encrypted containers.
  • Can create hidden volumes.
  • Supports nested encryption.
  • Automatically protects files.
Mounting a drive on VeraCrypt.
Mounting a drive on VeraCrypt. Image: VeraCrypt Documentation

VeraCrypt pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • Supports multiple encryption algorithms including Kuznyechik, AES and Serpent.

  • Supports multiple platforms.

  • Allows for easy hiding of encrypted data in sight.


  • Dated GUI.

  • No file-sharing option.

  • Isn’t integrated for cloud storage.

  • No formal support.

BitLocker: Best for Windows environments

BitLocker logo.
Image: BitLocker

For Windows-centric businesses, I recommend BitLocker. BitLocker is available on server and business editions and contains various encryption tools. The Redmond solution focuses on encrypting files and drives on a device right out of the box. I appreciate how you can set up recovery keys to retrieve data if you get firmware problems or errors. Personally, I think it’s an excellent choice for encryption software for Windows.

As a Microsoft product, you’ll typically need a Microsoft account or will need to link a device to a Windows domain to use it. You can also configure it for a corporate environment using Group Policy. The settings help you decide which drives you want to encrypt and how to distribute your keys (certificates).

Additionally, the computer must have a Trusted Platform Module that can support the encryption process.

Why I picked BitLocker

I chose BitLocker for its easy integration with Windows environments. This is on top of a user-friendly interface and full disk encryption. For users that are already deep into the Windows ecosystem or are planning to adopt a Windows-centered environment, BitLocker is my top recommendation.

Pricing

Free as part of Windows software.

Features

  • Encrypts full drives and other media.
  • Supports Microsoft account-linking and domain-linking.
  • Built into Windows software.
Accessing a drive via BitLocker.
Accessing a drive via BitLocker. Image: Microsoft Learn

BitLocker pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • User-friendly.

  • Comes built-in on Windows software.

  • Offers whole-disk encryption of files and folders.


  • Only works on Windows platform.

AxCrypt Premium: Best for local storage encryption

AxCrypt logo.
Image: AxCrypt

If you plan to encrypt locally, I encourage you to try AxCrypt Premium. AxCrypt Premium allows users to encrypt files locally using the AES-256 encryption algorithm. Sharing is possible with its key-sharing option. The solution protects classified and sensitive information and provides access to a master password generator.

SEE: Asymmetric vs Symmetric Encryption: What’s the Difference? (TechRepublic)

Why I picked AxCrypt

I selected AxCrypt for users that want to prioritize local storage encryption above all else. I also like that it uses the gold standard AES-256 encryption, has file and key-sharing support, and works well with the most popular operating systems and platforms.

Pricing

There’s a one-month trial period across its Password Manager, Premium, and Business subscriptions. But for organizations and businesses, AxCrypt’s Business plan is priced at $12.00 per month, per user. However, customers can get 20% off, or $10.42 per month per user, if they choose annual billing.

Features

  • Allows file and key sharing.
  • Supports encryption and decryption of files on Android and iOS devices.
  • Offers master password management.
Using a master key in AxCrypt.
Using a master key in AxCrypt. Image: AxCrypt Info page

AxCrypt pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • Good support options for enterprises.

  • Compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.


  • Doesn’t support Windows and Linux phones by default.

  • Locked files aren’t typically encrypted.

Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption: Best for handling diverse media and file types

Trend Micro logo.
Image: Trend Micro

If your workflow deals with various file types, Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption is my go-to suggestion. It offers high quality enterprise-wide full disk encryption, as well as file and database encryption. Not only does it support desktops, macOS, and PCs, but it also works with removable media such as USB drives, CDs, and DVDs.

SEE: Encryption Policy (TechRepublic Premium)

It’s a separate Trend Micro solution that caters towards businesses needing protection against unauthorized access of private data. What I appreciate is its consistent user experience. Current and former Trend Micro users will be happy to know that it uses the same console as other Trend Micro security products.

Why I picked Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption

I have Trend Micro’s Endpoint Encryption on this list for its ability to work well with a variety of media and file types. Businesses with workflows that regularly deal with diverse media files should consider Endpoint Encryption as a viable option. This includes encryption for full files, volumes, and folders.

Pricing

A license supporting 251 to up to 500 endpoints averages about $77-$83 per month.

Features

  • Folder Lock allows for remote locking in case of stolen or lost devices.
  • Provides transparent key management.
  • Centralized encryption management.
  • Automated enforcement of policy-based encryption.
Encryption deployment in Trend Micro.
Encryption deployment. Image: Trend Micro Documentation

Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • Extends to user-owned devices.

  • Offers pre-boot authentication.

  • Recovery console available on Windows devices.

  • Enforces the compliance requirements through detailed audits and more.

  • Encrypts full files, volumes, and folders.

  • Protects data on desktops, removable media, and laptops


  • Doesn’t protect servers.

  • Doesn’t work with Linux distros.

  • Requires separate agent for endpoint protection.

NordLocker: Best for all-in-one encrypted data

NordLocker logo.
Image: NordLocker

For businesses looking at an all-around encryption solution, I recommend NordLocker. From popular security provider Nord Security, NordLocker is their take on encrypted file storage. Aside from file encryption, it offers data syncing, secure file-sharing, and file management across numerous devices.

As a cloud-based solution, I envision businesses will find it convenient that they can easily access their files on their computers or mobile devices. Fans of Nord’s other security products, such as NordVPN and NordPass, should definitely consider NordLocker as a possible encryption solution.

Why I picked NordLocker

NordLocker got its name on this list for being an all-in-one encryption storage solution. Both businesses and individual users looking for a secure and intuitive way to secure their data will find NordLocker as a fine choice.

Pricing

NordLocker has two tiers: Personal and Business. For Personal, we get three subscription options with a monthly and annual plan. Here’s a rundown of the 1-year plans:

  • Personal 1-year 3GB: Free.
  • Personal 1-year 500GB: $2.99 per month.
  • Personal 1-year 2TB: $6.99 per month.

For NordLocker Business, we only get one plan option that lasts a year:

  • Business 1-year 2TB: $29.99 per month.

Features

  • Zero-knowledge architecture.
  • Supports folder locking.
  • Offers drag-and-drop auto encryption.
  • Supports secure file sharing.
  • On-the-go decryption and updates.
Dragging and dropping folders in NordLocker.
Dragging and dropping folders in NordLocker. Image: NordLocker Support page

NordLocker pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • Easy-to-use.

  • Supports multi-factor authentication.

  • Offers centralized management.

  • Combines backup, encryption, and file-sharing options.


  • Doesn’t support Linux natively.

Advanced Encryption Package: Best for easy encryption

Advanced Encryption Package logo.
Image: Advanced Encryption Package

For simple encryption tasks and less tech-savvy users, Advanced Encryption Package is a good option. It offers a choice between 20 proven encryption algorithms to protect user data. This includes the industry standard AES encryption, Blowfish, Serpent, GOST, Twofish, and many others.

SEE: Why Your Business Needs Cybersecurity Awareness Training (TechRepublic Premium)

It’s an easy-to-use data encryption solution that enables users to create a password to access files and choose their own encryption algorithm. Decryption is easy as well. Right now, AEP is available for Windows 10 and 11.

Why I picked Advanced Encryption Package

I chose Advanced Encryption Package for its ease of use in terms of selecting an encryption algorithm for specific files and folders. The fact that it puts an emphasis on user-friendliness is a big plus for encryption software — a product category that may be intimidating for some users to tackle.=

Pricing

  • Fully unlocked version: one-time fee of $49.95.
  • License pack for 2 PCs: $39 for each machine, $78 in total.
  • License pack for 3 PCs: $39 for each machine, $117 in total.

Features

  • Offers secure file deletion.
  • Supports 20 encryption algorithms.
  • Encrypts text to and from the clipboard.
  • Has command-line management.
Algorithm selection in AEP.
Algorithm selection in AEP. Image: Advanced Encryption Package

Advanced Encryption Package pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • Seamless integration with Windows 10 and 11.

  • Easy-to-use interface.

  • Free.

  • Allows you to encrypt text copied to the clipboard.


  • Not available for non-Windows 10 or 11 platforms.

ESET PROTECT Complete: Best for bundled endpoint protection

ESET Logo.
Image: ESET

For users that want an endpoint security solution alongside encryption, I recommend ESET PROTECT Complete. It’s a multilayered service that provides endpoint protection, a centralized console, and vulnerability and patch management.

For encryption, ESET offers full disk encryption that can easily encrypt system disks, partitions, and devices. This can prove essential for businesses that want to pass compliance requirements. I especially appreciate how ESET allows for encryption and deployment in a single action.

Why I picked ESET PROTECT

I have ESET PROTECT on this list for being a full-fledged security solution that can handle full disk encryption, endpoint protection, and advanced threat defense — in one service. I also like how it has fairly wide platform support, being compatible with Windows, macOS, Ubuntu, Android, iOS, mail and file servers, among others.

Pricing

ESET PROTECT Complete’s pricing is dependent on your contract length and number of devices covered. Below is a brief summary of pricing:

  • 1 year; 5 devices: $462.16 per year.
  • 1 year; 10 devices: $924.32 per year.
  • 2 years; 5 devices: $813.67 per year.
  • 2 years; 10 devices: $1,663 per year.

Features

  • Centralized management within the ESET PROTECT console.
  • IPS 140-2 validated with 256 bit AES encryption.
  • Protects endpoints, cloud apps, and email.
Full disk encryption deployment via ESET.
Full disk encryption deployment via ESET. Image: ESET

ESET pros and cons

Pros
Cons

  • Bundled with endpoint protection service.

  • Single-click deployment.

  • Covers encryption for Windows machines and native macOS encryption.


  • Not available in all ESET PROTECT subscription packages.

More cloud security coverage

Key features of encryption tools

When choosing encryption software, I recommend you focus on these key features:

User Interface

You want an easy-to-use interface so that you can manage and access the encrypted data easily. With encryption software, more novice users may find it daunting to implement and use. But an intuitive and user-friendly software experience will encourage users to encrypt more of their data, and in turn, increase their data’s security.

Automatic Backup

Ideally, an encryption tool should automatically backup encrypted files. I personally find there’s no point in encrypting data that’s at risk of being lost after a single wipe or crash. Having automatic backup functionality provides another layer of protection in case important user or business data is damaged or lost.

Encryption Algorithms

At the very least, I feel that encryption software should support the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256-bit algorithm, which is military-grade security. This is the standard encryption algorithm that’s widely recognized as the strongest in the world, with many banks and government agencies utilizing it for added protection. Other algorithms include RSA, Blowfish, Twofish, and DES.

SEE: Data Encryption Policy (TechRepublic Premium)

Diverse device support

For me, encryption software should accommodate a wide range of devices and platforms. Organizations with hundreds to thousands of users may use their own devices to work or have their own operating system (OS) preferences, which means that encryption should support as many devices as possible.

Having wide device support will allow higher adoption of encryption software, and consequently, a higher level of security being implemented in a business.

Customer Support

Solid and multiple support options are ideal. Encryption software providers should have quality customer support in place to help users that may not be familiar with how to implement such products.

This can come in a variety of forms: online guides and tutorials, community forums, support tickets, email and phone correspondence, and many more. The more options an individual user or business has for customer support, the better.

Methodology

I used market research to determine the top encryption software. This research involved studying industry rankings, discussions, and product reviews. Finally, we narrowed the list to the most appropriate candidates, choosing based on features like how well the software protects sensitive data, its integration capabilities, and the pricing in comparison to the features each offer.

How do I choose the best encryption software for my business?

Looking at the list of products above, you’ll find bundles, free options, and some with trial versions. So it’s easy to try them all out and choose the right file encryption program that meets your needs.

BitLocker could be ideal for those who want files encrypted throughout their network and don’t want a huge learning curve to use. However, VeraCrypt and AxCrypt may be better if the focus is on protecting individual files without sharing.

Trend Micro is more of an enterprise focused tool because of its business-focused feature set. Meanwhile, NordLocker and AEP may benefit less tech-savvy users or organizations.

Additionally, you should look for vendors with free product trials and transparent pricing.

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Subscribe to the Cloud Insider Newsletter

This is your go-to resource for the latest news and tips on the following topics and more, XaaS, AWS, Microsoft Azure, DevOps, virtualization, the hybrid cloud, and cloud security. Delivered Mondays and Wednesdays