Lock Microsoft Office files with a password

If you need to send a Microsoft Office file and ensure that only a specific recipient receives the file or if you just need to password protect a file.

Windows

1. Open the file you want to encrypt
2. Click on File
3. Under Info select Protect Document
4. Select Encrypt with password
   
    
5. You will need to enter the password you want to set Twice
   Note: Be sure to keep the password somewhere safe as you will be unable to recover the file without the password. Or save a copy that is not protected.

Mac

1. Open the file you want to encrypt
2. In the Ribbon select the Review section
3. Select Protect Document
   
    
4. Set the password in the following dialog box. 
   Note: Be sure to keep the password somewhere safe as you will be unable to recover the file without the password. Or save a copy that is not protected.