How to Password Protect RAR/ZIP on Ubuntu/Linux

This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of creating and setting passwords for RAR and ZIP files on Ubuntu and Linux systems. Learn how to safeguard your important files, documents, and data using both command-line tools and graphical user interfaces.

1. Generate a ZIP file password on Ubuntu/Linux using command-line

Before diving in, ensure you have the necessary tools installed. Open your terminal and run:

sudo apt install zip unzip

To compress a file and set a password simultaneously, navigate to the target directory and use the following command:

zip -re filename.zip file

For example, to password-protect a file named “sensitive-data.txt” in your Downloads folder:

cd ~/Downloads
zip -re secure-archive.zip sensitive-data.txt

The -r option enables recursive compression (for directories), while -e prompts for password creation. To compress an entire folder with password protection:

zip -re filename.zip *

2. Set password for ZIP and RAR files using Archive Manager

Open the Applications menu and search for “Archive Manager.”

Launch the application and drag-drop your file(s) into the interface.

• Filename: Set a name for the zip file.
• Other Option: set a password for the file
• Save: Save the zip file with your settings.

This method is compatible with Ubuntu 20.04 and newer versions. For Ubuntu 16.04 and earlier, right-click the file(s), select “Compress,” and follow a similar process to set the password.

Of course, you also need to install zip unzip, rar unrar

sudo apt install rar unrar
sudo apt install zip unzip

3. Set password for RAR file on Ubuntu/Linux using command

Similar to ZIP encryption, you can password-protect RAR archives via the terminal. First, install RAR support:

sudo apt-get install rar unrar

To create a password-protected RAR archive, use:

rar a -p archive-name.rar file-or-folder

The -p option will prompt you to enter and confirm a password. For example:

cd ~/Documents
rar a -p confidential.rar project-files/

This command creates a password-protected RAR archive named “confidential.rar” containing the “project-files” folder.

Security Considerations

While password-protecting your archives adds a layer of security, it’s important to note that ZIP file encryption is not the strongest. For highly sensitive data, consider using more robust encryption tools like GPG (GNU Privacy Guard).

By following these methods, you can effectively password-protect your RAR and ZIP files on Ubuntu and Linux, safeguarding your valuable information.