There’s no shortage of sensitive data circulating online today — from Social Security numbers to home addresses and financial details. As more information moves digitally, the risk of exposure continues to grow.
Protecting this data doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Many free encryption tools provide reliable protection, enabling organizations to secure critical information without overextending their budgets.
I’ve seen how the right encryption solution can strike a balance between security, usability, and cost. When implemented correctly, these tools keep sensitive data out of the wrong hands while remaining accessible for teams that rely on it.
Look at the leading solutions, their key features, pros and cons, and their G2 reviews.
Best free encryption software: My picks for 2026
-
Acra: Best for developer-centric data encryption and security integration
For application-level encryption, tokenization, and seamless secure data handling in modern apps.
-
AES Drive: Best for simple encrypted cloud drive workflows
For secure file storage and sharing with strong AES-based encryption and easy cross-platform access.
-
Enigma Vault: Best for privacy-first encrypted storage and sharing
For end-to-end encrypted vaults, access controls, and safe content distribution.
-
ESET Protect Advanced: Best for comprehensive endpoint protection with encryption tools
For layered security with integrated data protection, threat defense, and device encryption support.
-
HashiCorp Vault: Best for secrets and key management at scale
For centralizing secrets, dynamic credential rotation, and secure API access for infrastructure.
-
Heimdal: Best for proactive network security with upgrade controls
For automated patching, threat prevention, and secure communication layers in business environments.
-
Progress MOVEit: Best for secure file transfer and compliance-ready workflows
For encrypted managed file transfers, audit trails, and enterprise-grade data movement protection.
-
NordLocker: Best for easy encrypted file storage and sharing
For drag-and-drop secure folders, zero-knowledge encryption, and an intuitive user experience.
-
Tresorit: Best for zero-knowledge secure cloud collaboration
For encrypted team storage, file sharing with access controls, and enterprise-level compliance safeguards
*The software list is arranged alphabetically. These tools offer free trials, free forever options, or freemium models.
Comparison of the best free encryption software
Overwhelmed by all the details on free encryption tools? This comparison table simplifies the key aspects for you.
| Best free encryption software |
G2 Rating |
Free plan |
|
| Acra |
4.4/5 |
Community free plan available |
Starting at $10000 annually |
| AES Drive |
4/5 |
Lifetime free plan available |
- |
| Enigma Vault |
4.4/5 |
Free plan available |
Starting at $49.99/mo |
| ESET Protect |
4.6/5 |
Free business trial available |
Available on request |
| HashiCorp Vault |
4.3/5 |
Free trial available |
Starting at $0.10/user/mo |
| Heimdal |
4.3/5 |
Free trial available |
Available on request |
| Progress MOVEit |
4.4/5 |
30-day free trial |
Available on request |
| NordLocker |
4.1/5 |
Free plan available |
Starting at $2.99/mo |
| Tresorit |
4.5/5 |
Free trial available |
Starting at $19/user/mo |
*All pricing details mentioned in the article are based on publicly available data at the time of publication and are subject to change.
9 best free encryption software I recommend
The global demand for encryption solutions continues to surge as organizations and individuals alike prioritize data protection. In fact, in 2025, the encryption software market is projected to be worth about $17.06 billion, reflecting how critical data security has become across industries worldwide.
In my experience, the right free encryption software can help you secure files, messages, and disks with confidence — making it possible to protect sensitive information while keeping costs low and aligning with professional security needs
How did I find and evaluate these free encryption software?
To build this list, I began with G2 data, shortlisting top-rated tools based on their G2 scores and consistent performance in the free encryption software category.
From there, I reviewed product specs and recent, verified user feedback to confirm that these products deliver real value and to understand where each one stands out.
The goal was simple: to see whether these tools are as good as they claim, what each one is best for, and whether there’s a free version or free trial you can try with minimal risk. And because this is a free-focused list, I paid extra attention to what you can actually do without paying, such as whether the free tier includes core features, how long the free trial lasts, and what limitations might prompt you to upgrade.
The screenshots featured in this article may be a mix of those taken from the vendor’s G2 page or from publicly available materials.
The product list below contains real user reviews from the best free encryption software category page. It’s important to note that in the context of this list, vendors offering a free trial are also considered free.
To be included in this category, a solution must:
- Secure data and files using ciphertext
- Prepare either data at rest, data in transit, or data in use for encryption
- Allow users to choose and manage files and their encryption settings
This data was pulled from G2 in 2026. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
1. Acra: Best for developer-centric data encryption and security integration
Acra provides fast, field-level encryption, searchable encryption, data tokenization, and data masking to keep sensitive data in SQL and NoSQL databases safe.. This tool also prevents data breaches by firewalling and IDS, provides searchable data encryption without requiring changes to app code, and works seamlessly with modern cloud environments.
The Acra Community Edition license is free to all users.
Pros and cons of Acra: My take
| Pros of Acra |
Cons of Acra |
| Field-level and searchable encryption |
Steep learning curve for beginners |
| Strong integration with modern apps |
Limited visual management tools |
| Designed for cloud-native environments |
Requires cryptography knowledge |
What G2 users like about Acra:
“Acra is doing a fine job in ensuring that businesses comply with various laws and regulations, such as the Companies Act and the Accounting Standards. In my previous organization, we implemented workflows offered by ACRA and heavily benefited from it.”
- Acra review, Tarun K.
What G2 users dislike about Acra:
“For those who don’t understand cryptography, it might be complicated to configure.”
- Acra review, Max P.
2. AES Drive: Best for simple encrypted cloud drive workflows
AES Drive is an easy-to-use tool that keeps files securely encrypted on the disk at all times using industry-standard techniques. The decrypted files are available whenever they’re needed.
You can download the Starter Edition of AES Drive for free. The other two options are available with free trials.
Pros and cons of AES Drive: My take
| Pros of AES Drive |
Cons of AES Drive |
| Simple encrypted virtual drive setup |
No password recovery options |
| Strong AES-based file encryption |
Limited enterprise-level controls |
| Works smoothly with cloud storage |
Fewer collaboration features |
What G2 users like about AES Drive:
“Ease of use with AES Drive is something that I admire. It encrypts your files using a strong encryption mechanism and at the same time lets you work easily with your files in a way as if they were not encrypted in the first place.”
- AES Drive review, Verified User in Information Technology and Services
What G2 users dislike about AES Drive:
“Sometimes it's a little bit too secure and I know that might not make sense, but if I was to ever lose or forget my password I would have a pretty hard time looking at encrypted files.”
- AES Drive review, Verified User in Computer Software
3. Enigma Vault: Best for privacy-first encrypted storage and sharing
Enigma Vault is an encryption tool that encrypts and tokenizes data of all shapes and sizes. The data vault makes it possible for users to search and retrieve encrypted data, while the file vault encrypts and stores files from kilobytes to gigabytes.
Users can try various packages and bundles of Enigma Vault with a 30-day free trial.
Pros and cons of Enigma Vault: My take
| Pros of Enigma Vault |
Cons of Enigma Vault |
| Strong encryption and tokenization |
Screen capture protection is limited |
| Supports encrypted data search |
Interface can feel complex |
| Handles large file storage securely |
Fewer workflow automation options |
What G2 users like about Enigma Vault:
“What I like the most about Enigma Vaults is encrypting and tokenizing data. Also I've had the best experience with my payment cards, and on top of that it encrypts and stores files from kilobytes to gigabytes in size. I think that's quite impressive.”
- Enigma Vault review, Aashir S.
What G2 users dislike about Enigma Vault:
“If possible, try to protect the screen sharing/casting option, similar to Netflix, where cast and screenshot are not available.”
- Enigma Vault review, Naveen A.
4. ESET Protect Advanced: Best for comprehensive endpoint protection with encryption tools
ESET Protect Advanced offers endpoint protection against ransomware and zero-day threats, backed up by powerful data security. It boasts full-disk encryption, advanced threat defense, and server security, making it a comprehensive security solution for all business sizes.
Users can get started with ESET Protect Advanced with a 30-day free trial.
Pros and cons of ESET Protect Advanced: My take
| Pros of ESET Protect Advanced |
Cons of ESET Protect Advanced |
| Full-disk encryption for endpoints |
Installation issues lack visibility |
| Centralized security management |
End-user alerts could be clearer |
| Strong ransomware protection |
Requires admin oversight |
What G2 users like about ESET Protect Advanced:
“It's simple to deploy. It gives me the flexibility to deploy via Intune, which is vital for managing my device fleet. Knowing I can manage everything from an easy-to-understand dashboard also gives me peace of mind.”
- ESET Protect Advanced review, Naved P.
What G2 users dislike about ESET Protect Advanced:
“Needs to be more visible to the end user if there's a problem with the installation, service operation, updates, etc. There should be regular pop ups to notify the user that intervention is required.”
- ESET Protect Advanced review, Steven S.
5. HashiCorp Vault: Best for secrets and key management at scale
HashiCorp Vault protects sensitive data across clouds, applications, and systems. According to G2 Data, it is used by 41% and 35% enterprise-level businesses. This makes sense as it provides them with increased armor against data exposure by encrypting large batches of sensitive data in transit, ensuring trusted connections between services.
HashiCorp Vault offers a free plan with limited features.
Pros and cons of HashiCorp Vault: My take
| Pros of HashiCorp Vault |
Cons of HashiCorp Vault |
| Centralized secrets management |
Complex initial configuration |
| Scales across cloud environments |
Requires DevOps expertise |
| Strong API and automation support |
Minimal built-in UI |
What G2 users like about HashiCorp Vault:
“Capability of encrypting files and handling loads is commendable. The ability to create sections tailored for document types is good. Its flexibility is incredibly valuable. HashiCorp Vault stands as a powerful tool for securing sensitive information.”
- HashiCorp Vault review, Timothy C.
What G2 users dislike about HashiCorp Vault:
“Some users may find it challenging to set up and configure, particularly for more complex use cases. Additionally, some users may find the pricing model to be a bit expensive, especially for smaller teams or organizations with limited budgets.”
- HashiCorp Vault review, Daniel S.
6. Heimdal: Best for proactive network security with upgrade controls
Heimdal is a multi-security suite with advanced detection and response capabilities, endpoint management, threat hunting, and encryption protection. Together, these features secure customers against cyber attacks and keep critical information and intellectual property safe.
Users can get started with Heimdal’s 30-day free trial.
Pros and cons of Heimdal: My take
| Pros of Heimdal |
Cons of Heimdal |
| Modular security components |
Malware defense not fully bundled |
| Automated patch management |
Limited visibility into alerts |
| Strong network threat prevention |
Requires tuning for best results |
What G2 users like about Heimdal:
“Heimdal offers many different modules in their product, but you can mix and match them as you like so you don't have to pay for something you're not going to use. It is also very easy to manage and implement most things.”
- Heimdal review, Christian S.
What G2 users dislike about Heimdal:
“It doesn't include their malware defense services. I would like it if a lifetime subscription was offered for that.”
- Heimdal review, Jeremiah E.
7. Progress MOVEit: Best for secure file transfer and compliance-ready workflows
MOVEit by Progress helps organizations meet stringent cybersecurity compliance standards, including PCI-DSS, HIPAA, GDPR, and SOC 2. This encryption tool provides a secure environment for sensitive files while ensuring the reliability of core business processes with ease. In fact, as per G2 Data, it's ranked as the 4th easiest to use encryption software. It offers the security, centralized access controls, file encryption, and activity tracking needed to guarantee operational reliability and compliance.
Users can get started with MOVEit with a 30-day free trial.
Pros and cons of Progress MOVEit: My take
| Pros of Progress MOVEit |
Cons of Progress MOVEit |
| Secure managed file transfers |
Server setup can be complex |
| Strong compliance and audit trails |
File search functionality is limited |
| Centralized access controls |
Admin dependency for configuration |
What G2 users like about Progress MOVEit:
“It can be helpful in reaching your business goals. Although it still needs polishing, it is a tool that helps you keep your files safe with secure encryption. Overall, I definitely recommend using MOVEit to all peers working with FTP that need to keep their data safe!”
- Progress MOVEit review, Monica N.
What G2 users dislike about Progress MOVEit:
“We are not able to look for the files based on the date. That seems to be one issue. Another is setting up a server is a bit difficult. You need to consult the admin team. Specifically, a Microsoft Server operating system to get the MOVEit installed.”
- Progress MOVEit review, Raj T.
8. NordLocker: Best for easy encrypted file storage and sharing
NordLocker is an encrypted cloud storage platform for storing, sharing, and managing business data securely. Users can access their files through a private file vault on the web or within desktop and mobile apps. According to G2 Data, NordLocker is used by 56% small businesses.
NordLocker offers a 30-day free trial for new users.
Pros and cons of NordLocker: My take
| Pros of NordLocker |
Cons of NordLocker |
| Zero-knowledge encryption model |
Limited notification controls |
| Easy drag-and-drop file encryption |
Folder naming restrictions |
| Intuitive user experience |
Fewer advanced admin tools |
What G2 users like about NordLocker:
“What I like most about NordLocker is that it hides personal data effectively, ensuring a secure digital space. It also does a great job of protecting online privacy, and I appreciate that it allows unrestricted access to the internet.”
- NordLocker review, Christina P.
What G2 users dislike about NordLocker:
“Users do not get informed when new files are uploaded. Everything was pretty much fine, just some of the folders couldn't load because of symbols in the folder name..”
- NordLocker review, Verified User in Investment Banking
9. Tresorit: Best for zero-knowledge secure cloud collaboration
Tresorit is an end-to-end encrypted, zero-knowledge content collaboration platform that lets security-conscious companies manage, sync, sign, and share their files safely. With ultra-secure encryption for cloud storage, encrypted file sharing and storage, and e‑signature within your organization and external partners, users can rest assured that all of their files are safe and secure.
Tresorit provides a 14-day free trial for new users.
Pros and cons of Tresorit: My take
| Pros of Tresorit |
Cons of Tresorit |
| End-to-end encrypted collaboration |
File reorganization is cumbersome |
| Strong access control options |
No multi-window file view |
| Secure sharing for teams |
Navigation can feel restrictive |
What G2 users like about Tresorit:
“One of the main aspects of Tresorit is its robust encryption, which offers end-to-end encryption for files kept on its servers. This indicates that even if Tresorit wanted to, they cannot access the user's files; only the user has access to them. Also, its user-friendly interface makes it simple to upload, download, and share data securely.”
- Tresorit review, Deepak J.
What G2 users dislike about Tresorit:
“Reorganizing files is a pain. Much more cumbersome and visually un-intuitive than Windows File Manager. Renaming. You have to click, wait, click, wait, and often it never works. Moving files you have to go all the way up the directory and into the subfolder, sub folder, etc., which shouldn't really be necessary. You also can't open more than one window, which further necessitates following Tresorit's built in path.”
- Tresorit review, Rosi H.
Free encryption software: Frequently asked questions
Q. What types of data can free encryption tools protect?
Free encryption software can secure files, databases, credentials, and cloud storage. AES Drive focuses on encrypting cloud drive data, while Enigma Vault secures stored files and shared content with privacy-first encryption.
Q. Can free encryption software help with compliance requirements?
Some free tools support compliance efforts by encrypting sensitive data and controlling access. MOVEit helps meet data protection standards during file transfers, while HashiCorp Vault securely manages encryption keys for regulated environments.
Q. Is free encryption software suitable for developers?
Absolutely. Developer-centric tools, such as Acra, integrate directly into applications and databases, making it easier to embed encryption into workflows without disrupting development processes.
Q. How does free encryption software handle file sharing?
Many free tools encrypt files before sharing to prevent unauthorized access. DropSecure offers lightweight encrypted backup and sync, while Enigma Vault focuses on secure file sharing with strict privacy controls.
Q. Are there limitations to free encryption software?
Free plans often come with feature caps, user limits, or fewer automation options. For example, Heimdal provides strong baseline encryption and network security, with advanced controls available through paid upgrades.
Q. Can free encryption software protect cloud-based data?
Yes. Tools like AES Drive encrypt cloud storage locally before syncing, ensuring cloud providers never see unencrypted data. This approach adds an extra layer of security for cloud workflows.
Q. What’s the difference between encryption and secure file transfer?
Encryption protects data by encoding it, while secure file transfer ensures that encrypted data moves safely between systems. MOVEit combines both encryption of files and enforcement of secure transfer protocols for compliance-focused workflows.
Keep your data secure at all costs.
No matter what type of information you’re looking to protect, find a free option that keeps hackers at bay, providing you and your team the peace of mind that you deserve. I hope the tools on this list help you safeguard personal information from the threat of a data breach – regardless of your budget.
Learn more about how end-to-end encryption keeps sensitive information secure as it moves from one device to another
This article was originally published in 2024. It has been updated with new information.
.png)
