If you’re like many of us, you have a few computer files that are intended for your eyes only. To protect those files from others who may use your computer, you’ve probably relied on their honesty, individually password-protecting each file, or encryption software.

Now Microsoft steps in with a neat little free program that makes it easier to keep your sensitive data private. Private Folder 1.0, just released, is designed to “protect your private data when your friends, colleagues, kids or other people share your PC or account. With this tool, you will get one password protected folder called ‘My Private Folder’ in your account to save your personal files.”

It’s free for downloading at the Microsoft Private Folder 1.0 page. For PC users only, Private Folder requires Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Professional Edition, or Media Center Edition with SP2 installed.

Using my high-speed DSL line, the download completed in about 12 seconds. It installed seamlessly, walked me through the folder set-up in about 30 seconds, and then plopped my private folder on my computer’s desktop. Any file I want to keep private I can now just save to that folder. I like it because it keeps all my sensitive data (journal, a few financial records, one or two particularly sensitive client files) in one place.

How secure is it really? Most of us don’t have hackers sharing our home or office computers, so I think this software’s got good use for average users like you and me.

Tags: practice management