When it comes to encryption, BetterZip is also better than the alternatives for compressed files. If the app detects you actually made any changes to a document, it offers you the option to update (re-compress) your archive. Where BetterZip stands apart is it allows you the option to edit files within an archive. You can add as many files or folders to an archive as you like, and choose where you'd like your archive saved after it's compressed.

It automatically protects your files and folders with AES-256 encryption, and has a password generator for creating and managing secure passwords for files or folders.īetterZip works via a structure it appropriately calls archives, which are projects for compressing and encrypting backups of your files and folders. You can archive files you need to tuck away for safekeeping, and BetterZip works with popular compression formats like RAR, ZIP, 7-ZIP, and ISO. The better way to protect ZIP files on your MacīetterZip for Mac is – well, better! It has a clean, easy to understand interface that helps you discover files and folders easily, then compress and password protect them quickly. You can enter multiple filenames or folder names after the ' zip -er' command, but an errant keystroke or mistyped filename will render the process useless.Īn app that can handle compression and encryption is a better bet for most users – especially when it can handle drag-and-drop or has a window that shows your entire filesystem. Terminal is a great option for zipping and encrypting one file or folder, but it's not great for multiple compressions. Double-clicking the file or folder to open it will prompt you for the password you typed into Terminal, so be sure to keep your passwords in a safe location. That's all it takes! You'll now see a compressed file on your desktop. Note: in the image below, our folder is named 'Setapp' so the command reads: zip -er setapp.zip

Type this command into Terminal: zip -er filename.zip.

Note: if your file or folder were saved to the desktop, you'd type in: cd desktop Type in ' cd' (no parentheses) and the location of the file or folder you want to compress and protect.

It takes some unique commands, but it's the most straightforward method to password protect ZIP file and folders on Mac. There's a simple way to zip and password protect folders and files via Terminal. How to password protect a ZIP file with Terminal We'll show you how to password protect a ZIP file, open encrypted ZIP files and folders, and discuss some proven methods for safeguarding your data.

Mac password protect zip folder