I have a PC running Windows XP (the home version). I am secretly
bitter because I didn't get the professional version, which allows you
to password protect folders. I would like to install some software
that would give me this ability. I'm willing to pay up to $20 for it.
It needs to be very reliable, very easy to install, and free of bugs.

I'd prefer something that uses a sturdy enough form of encryption
that, even if someone stole my PC and took it to a professional
file-decrypter (or whatever they're called), the files would still be
secure. However, this is not a requirement.

Please suggest some software.

upscale...

How about a free program that does what you want
and more?

Teknum Systems AS runs a website offering a variety of
free utilities under the name HandyBits. EasyCrypto
is their encryption software:

"You can encrypt both standalone files and entire folders.
 The high level of security is ensured by using the 
 well-known unbeatable 128-bit key BlowFish algorithm."

This feature-rich software also includes:

Self-extracting EasyCrypto ZIP
EasyCrypto ZIP archives
Securely wiping files 
Multi-Language Support
Integration with Windows Explorer
Undo last operation
Checking files before processing
Power Off safety
Named Passwords
Custom Backgrounds
Useful tips banner
Online services

Download EasyCrypto Deluxe for free here:
http://www.handybits.com/easycrypto.htm


I'm not just a researcher...I'm a customer,
so I knew just what to search for... : )


Please do not rate this answer until you are satisfied that  
the answer cannot be improved upon by means of a dialog  
established through the "Request for Clarification" process. 
 
A user's guide on this topic is on skermit-ga's site, here: 
http://www.christopherwu.net/google_answers/answer_guide.html#how_clarify 
 
sublime1-ga


Searches done, via Google:

easy crypto
://www.google.com/search?q=easy+crypto

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Request for Answer Clarification by upscale-ga on 04 Jan 2004 20:20 PST

Is there any easy way to tell it to encrypt an entire folder and all
subfolders, rather than descending into the directory structure and
selecting every file one at a time?

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Request for Answer Clarification by upscale-ga on 04 Jan 2004 20:22 PST

Nevermind. Found it.

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Clarification of Answer by sublime1-ga on 04 Jan 2004 21:38 PST

upscale...

I'm glad to hear you're giving it a try. I think
you'll find it easy to work with. I'm responding 
also in order to clear the message I get saying
"Please respond to the clarification request",
which comes up when a clarification request is 
posted by a customer.

Enjoy the program!

sublime1-ga