An Efficient Desktop-Based File and Folder Encryption Framework Using Fernet Cryptography

Data security has become one of the most critical concerns in the modern digital era due to the rising frequency of cyberattacks, unauthorized file access, ransomware infections, and data theft. Personal users, students, organizations, and businesses continuously store confidential information in digital format, making robust file protection essential. This research paper presents a desktop-based cybersecurity application named Secure File & Folder Encryptor, developed using Python 3.13.3, Tkinter GUI, and Fernet symmetric encryption from the Python Cryptography library. The application allows users to encrypt and decrypt individual files, folders, images, and ZIP archives securely on the Windows platform. A unique cryptographic key is generated per encryption operation and stored as a .key file, while the ciphertext is saved as a .enc file. The system implements AES-128-CBC with HMAC-SHA256 for authenticated encryption, ensuring confidentiality, data integrity, and tamper detection. The software is distributed as a Windows Setup installer (.exe) requiring no Python environment. Future enhancements include migration to a Django/Flask web platform with AI-based threat analysis and cloud storage integration.

Cybersecurity, Fernet Cryptography, Symmetric Encryption, File Encryption

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11. 13. GITHUB REPOSITORY AND SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD LINKS [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

12. The complete source code, setup installer, and project resources of the Secure File & Folder Encryptor application are publicly available on GitHub. Researchers, developers, and end users are encouraged to explore the repository, review the implementation, and contribute to future enhancements. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

13. 13.1 GitHub Repository [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

14. The full project source code is hosted at the following GitHub repository: [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

15. Repository: https://github.com/shrutidalela/secure-file-folder-encryptor [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

16. 13.2 Software Download (Windows Setup Installer) [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

17. The Windows setup installer (.exe) for version 1.0 of the application can be downloaded from the GitHub Releases page: [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

18. Release Page: https://github.com/shrutidalela/secure-file-folder-encryptor/releases/tag/v1.0 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

19. 13.3 Direct Setup Download [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

20. A direct download link for the SecureEncryptorSetup.exe Windows installer is provided below. No Python installation or additional dependencies are required: [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

21. Direct Download: https://github.com/shrutidalela/secure-file-folder-encryptor/releases/download/v1.0/SecureEncryptorSetup.exe [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

22. 13.4 Installation Instructions [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

23. Download SecureEncryptorSetup.exe from the direct link above. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

24. Run the installer on any Windows 10/11 system. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

25. Follow the on-screen setup wizard to complete installation. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

26. Launch Secure File & Folder Encryptor from the Start Menu or Desktop shortcut. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

27. Use the Encrypt File, Decrypt File, Encrypt Whole Folder, or Decrypt Whole Folder buttons. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

28. Store your generated .key file in a secure, separate location from the .enc file. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

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