VeraCrypt

VeraCrypt creates encrypted virtual disks and can encrypt partitions, giving users a way to protect data through locally managed volumes. Once a volume is unlocked and mounted, files can be accessed through the operating system while encryption works in the background. The software is free and open source, with support across major desktop platforms, although some encryption functions are platform-specific. An encrypted container can be placed in cloud storage, where the provider receives encrypted data rather than the unlocked files.

VeraCrypt itself does not supply cloud syncing, and safe use requires care when closing volumes or avoiding conflicting edits across devices. Compared with a file-oriented cloud encryption tool such as Cryptomator, its container approach can demand more manual handling. It suits technically confident users who want control over encryption and storage choices, especially when protecting local data is as important as storing an encrypted copy online.