How to encrypt selected text and entire text files with Notepad++

Notepad++ is a popular text editor and Notepad replacement with many useful features. One of its best features is its support for plug-ins. NppCrypt is a Notepad++ plug-in that lets you encrypt selected text or entire text files. If you don't want to use BitLocker in Windows 7 or TrueCrypt, here's how you can use Notepad++ to encrypt your text files.

Install Notepad++ and NppCrypt plug-in

Step 1: Download and install Notepad++.

Step 2: Launch the plug-in manager by going to Plugins > Plugin Manager > Show Plugin Manager.

Step 3: Select NppCrypt from the plug-in list, then click the Install button. Allow Notepad++ to restart after the NppCrypt finishes installing.

(Credit: Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET)

Encrypt text

Step 1: To encrypt selected text, select the text you want to encrypt, then go to Plugins > NppCrypt > Encrypt.

Step 2: Select the cipher you want to use, then type in a password.

(Credit: Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET)

To encrypt the entire file, just go to NppCrypt without selecting any text and choose Encrypt. To decrypt text, go back to NppCrypt and choose the Decrypt option.

This is what an encrypted text file will look like.

(Credit: Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET)

That's it. Now you can encrypt select data in a text file or the entire file with ease, using Notepad++ and NppCrypt.

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