Securing your sensitive data on a Windows 7 system is essential to protect it from unauthorized access. Password protecting a folder in Windows 7 is a straightforward process that adds a layer of security to your files. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to password protect a folder in Windows 7:

1. Right-click on the folder you want to protect and select 'Properties'.
2. In the Properties window, navigate to the 'General' tab and click on the 'Advanced' button.
3. Check the box that says 'Encrypt contents to secure data' and click 'OK'.
4. You will be prompted to back up your encryption key. Follow the instructions to complete the process.
5. Once the folder is encrypted, only users with the correct password will be able to access its contents.

By following these steps, you can add an extra layer of security to your important folders on a Windows 7 system.