Securing files and folders

[DonGiulio]

I remember years ago, using MS Word 97 in either Windows 98 or XP, I managed to create a password lock for a file that I use to this day - even now using MS Word 2007. I don't remember exactly how I did it. I can't seem to be able to do that at all now.
Seen a few ways to hide a file/folder using a convoluted script and pay through the nose to get specialized software.
There must be an easy way to do this.

[DonGiulio]

Any way to do the same with folders, jpg's, and/or mp3 files?

[hamluis]

To set a password in MS Word 2007 click the Microsoft Office Button , click Save As, and on the bottom of the Save As dialog, click Tools. On the Tools menu, click General Options. Under File sharing options for this document you can add a password to open or to modify the document.

[hamluis]

One method you can use is to add the files to a ZIP file and then apply a password to the ZIP file.

Otherwise you could encrypt the files: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-au/windows/password-protect-files-folders#1TC=windows-7