PKware Securezip v8

Used across the world to quickly compress and send large amounts of data, you'd be hard pushed to find a PC without a single zip file stored on it. The problem with the standard PKzip application for Windows is that, while its password protection option offers suitable security for the average home user, for corporate purposes it's not quite up to the job and can leave your data vulnerable.

PKware's Securezip 8 aims to provide businesses with the security they need without the headaches that are usually associated with data encryption software. Built around RSA Security's Bsafe technology, Securezip boasts some advanced encryption techniques. Zip files can either be password protected or encrypted for a list of recipients using their digital certificates - for maximum security you can use both methods. If required, it's also possible to hide the name of the zip file itself.

In terms of usability, Securezip is about as simple as it gets. As with Pkzip, you can either use standard drag-and-drop to create a zip file or, alternatively, put the wizard into action. Securezip also links up with Outlook and is able to attach your zip to a new email if required.

Of course, for most home users this sort of encryption is a little over the top and you'd be better off using the standard PKzip application, which is also a fair bit cheaper than Securezip. Nevertheless, if you often email sensitive information around, Securezip will ensure it never gets into the wrong hands. What's more, unlike many other encryption utilities, Securezip is incredibly easy to set up and use.

Contact: PKware 0118 979 9909
www.pkware.co.uk

System requirements:

• Windows 98/ME/2000/NT/XP
• 128MB Ram
• 12MB hard disk space