Hi,If I create a zip file using the built in compression tool in windows Xp and then add a password does it get encrypted? If not can it be encrypted and to what standard.For example in with Winzip there is a choice of Zip2, 128 BIT AES and 256 Bit AES. What is the MS equivalent? ThanksStuart

HI, You may follow the steps in the below given article to password protect zipped files.How to create and use compressed (zipped) folders in Windows XPhttp://support.microsoft.com/kb/306531Note: Follow the section ‘How to protect a compressed folder by requiring a password’ Hope this information is helpful.Amrita MMicrosoft Answers Support EngineerVisit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.

Sorry I think you have misread the question, I did not ask how to do this, I know how to zip and add a password, what I'm asking is IF I do this is the zip file encrypted, and if so what standard or encryption type is used?

Hello, stuey650Password protecting a zip file does use a form of encryption to encrypt the file. How it does this is outside the scope of this forum.DavidMicrosoft Answers Support EngineerVisit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.