Hide Folder Lite

Type of Program: Security
Supported Platforms: Windows 95/98/ME
Author: Pilot Group LLC
Version: 3
Price: $19.99 U.S.
Installed Size: 704 KB

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 Hide Folder Lite 3.0 is designed to make files and folders inaccessible to prying eyes and does a pretty good job. When a file is "called" by a program, Hide Folders checks to see if it has been added for protection and acts accordingly. Also included is a powerful encryption function which can be implemented along with the hide function. You can choose from eight encryption algorithms including the popular Blowfish. The program has a simple interface with menu bar and toolbar to access the various Wizards and other options. The trial version is limited to thirty days (which turns out to be 30 USES) and you are limited to hiding/encrypting ten items.

Hiding items is a simple matter of browsing to the file or folder and selecting it or using the Wizard. Hidden items appear in a list that shows the path, file type and status. Naturally, hiding an item makes it disappear. Unlocking or deleting it from the list makes it reappear. I suppose this is sufficient for most purposes however, I discovered that if the path to the file is known, it can be accessed in a number of ways such as typing the full path in the Run dialog. The encryption function works like a dream. There is a Wizard available in the "Crypt" menu or from the toolbar and it quickly hides and encrypts in one fell swoop. One thing I didn't like is that you can't encrypt a file without hiding it also.

The only other niggle I have is that the Help files weren't up to date. Several features weren't documented and there were a few typos and missing words. All in all the program functions as prescribed. Just be aware that there are some instances where hidden files can be accessed. I think the price is reasonable compared to similar products and if they address the issues I've revealed here, this could be a real value.

Performance
User Friendly
Cost
Ease of Installation
Support
Reviewed by Lain O'Siodhachain

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