The best alternatives to NordLocker for companies looking for reliable file encryption software

To this day, businesses and companies of all sizes face endless cyber threats that jeopardize the security of their data. Unauthorized access, leaks, security breaches… An old-fashioned antivirus is not enough and, often, using a VPN does not cover the basic needs of a corporation. It is in these cases when the use of cloud file encryption software becomes essential.

Within this context we find NordLocker, one of the market’s leading software capable of protecting sensitive information stored in the cloud thanks to its encryption algorithms. Thanks to it, even if any file is intercepted by third parties, it becomes unreadable and therefore useless to all unauthorized personnel.

However, despite its good results, NordLocker is not a suitable product for every business. Depending on the size, team, or budget of a company, opting for this software could create more problems than it solves. That is why, in today’s article, we will offer you a classification, reviews and comparisons among what we consider the main alternatives to NordLocker. Here we go!

Which option to choose?

What is NordLocker?

NordLocker is a file encryption solution developed by Nord Security, the creators of NordVPN, one of the most recognized VPNs on the market. This tool is designed to protect files with end-to-end encryption, both in local storage and in the cloud, aiming to ensure the confidentiality and security of sensitive data, something essential for any company handling critical information.

To give you an idea, NordLocker works like a kind of “digital safe” or security vault: it allows users to encrypt files with a master password, synchronize them across devices, and share them securely.

It is compatible with the main operating systems on the market (Windows, macOS, and Android and iOS mobile devices), and is presented as a simple and accessible alternative compared to more complex enterprise security solutions. But, as good as it sounds, there are reasons not to use this software in your company, and we are here to explain what its best alternatives are.

Why you need file encryption software in your company

In an environment where digital threats are increasingly sophisticated, as we always discuss in this magazine, file encryption has become an essential layer of protection for any company, regardless of its size or sector.

Regardless of the industry we work in, corporate files, from contracts and financial records to customer information and intellectual property, are by default strategic assets that must be safeguarded against unauthorized access, data theft, accidental leaks, or even corporate espionage.

Encryption software ensures that only authorized people can access that information, so this information is protected even if it is leaked through a cyberattack. 

Beyond protection against external attacks, encryption is also a key tool for complying with privacy and data protection regulations such as the GDPR in Europe, the LOPD in Spain, or HIPAA in the United States.

By encrypting sensitive files, a business demonstrates its commitment to data security and significantly reduces the risk of penalties in the event of a breach. Additionally, many modern encryption solutions offer access control, auditing, and secure document sharing features, providing extra efficiency and confidence in the daily management of information.

Why look for alternatives to NordLocker?

Despite its advantages, NordLocker is not always the best option for all companies. Some of the reasons why certain businesses may choose to look for other solutions are explained below:

• Limitations in advanced features for centralized administration, something key in large corporate environments.
• Lack of native integration with broader enterprise ecosystems, such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or document management platforms.
• Dependence on Nord’s proprietary cloud, which can raise concerns in regulated sectors that require total control of the storage environment.
• User pricing that can quickly scale, especially in companies with many employees.

For these reasons, many organizations and companies often end up evaluating alternatives that offer greater flexibility, control, or operational-level integration. And our job is to explain what options you have and which are the best depending on the type of company you are.

In today’s article, we will analyze the main competitors of NordLocker in the market. Among them, we highlight Tresorit, Proton Drive, AxCrypt Business, VeraCrypt, and Microsoft BitLocker.

Comparison of alternatives to NordLocker

And since there is nothing like a good presentation table, here we leave you the alternatives to NordLocker from the previous section with some of their key points, so you can compare their similarities and differences at a glance:

1. Tresorit - For companies seeking a high level of security

Tresorit is a cloud storage platform with end-to-end encryption, specially designed for companies that need to comply with strict data protection regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA.

Unlike NordLocker, Tresorit integrates document management, secure collaboration, and advanced administrative control, making it a much more comprehensive solution for corporate environments.

We consider it one of the most powerful alternatives to NordLocker for companies seeking a high level of security. This Swiss-origin solution offers end-to-end encryption on all stored or shared files, and stands out for its strict compliance with regulations such as GDPR (something sacred in Europe).

One of its great advantages is the ability to control permissions at different levels, establish access policies, and track user activity, making it an ideal option for organizations with teams distributed worldwide and those practicing remote work.

Additionally, its integration with Microsoft 365 and its focus on privacy (with servers located in Europe) make it especially attractive for companies handling sensitive data.

Key features of Tresorit

• E2E encryption before uploading any file.
• Permission and role-based access control.
• Secure sharing with protected links.
• Integration with Microsoft 365 and Outlook.
• Activity audit and version recovery.

Pros of Tresorit

• Very strong in privacy and legal compliance.
• Collaboration tools included.

Cons of Tresorit

• Higher price than NordLocker.
• Requires a bit more learning curve.

Tresorit plans and pricing

• Business Standard: from €10/user/month.
• Business Plus: from €14/user/month.
• Custom plans for large companies.
• No free plan with all features available.

2. Proton Drive - The Most Transparent on the Market

Proton Drive is the encrypted cloud storage solution developed by the creators of Proton Mail and Proton VPN , with a strong focus on privacy and data sovereignty.

It offers end-to-end encryption on all stored files and guarantees that not even Proton can access the content. It is fully hosted in Switzerland, which adds a legal layer of protection thanks to one of the strictest privacy laws in the world.

Although its focus has traditionally been individual, Proton Drive has begun to incorporate plans for teams and small businesses, with secure sharing features, device synchronization, and a very polished interface.

Proton Drive offers encrypted cloud storage space with end-to-end encryption, inheriting Proton Mail’s privacy philosophy.

Unlike NordLocker, it does not allow encrypted local storage, but its architecture is completely oriented toward protecting data privacy, without monetization through advertising or tracking.

Recommended for small businesses or freelancers with strong privacy concerns, seeking a reliable and easy-to-use ecosystem without relying on large corporations.

Key Features of Proton Drive

• E2E encryption with zero access policy.
• File sharing with protected links.
• Web and mobile applications.
• Servers located exclusively in Switzerland.
• Progressive integration with other Proton services (Mail, Calendar, VPN).

Pros of Proton Drive

• Total privacy and ad-free policy.
• Modern and very intuitive interface.

Cons of Proton Drive

• Business features still under development.
• No local encryption (cloud only).

Plans and Pricing of Proton Drive

• Free: 1 GB of storage.
• Proton Unlimited: from €9.99/month (includes all Proton services).
• Plans for teams and businesses in progressive expansion.

3. AxCrypt Business - The Lightest and Most Affordable

AxCrypt is a lighter yet effective encryption tool, ideal for SMEs looking to protect individual files easily and at a contained cost. The Business version allows centralized user management, password recovery, and secure sharing of encrypted files.

Although it does not offer its own cloud storage, AxCrypt can integrate with services like Dropbox or Google Drive, adding an additional layer of security. Its strong point is ease of use, making it recommended for companies that want to improve their cybersecurity without technical complexities.

Unlike NordLocker, which also includes cloud storage, AxCrypt focuses exclusively on encryption and file sharing, integrating with services like Dropbox or Google Drive.

It is perfect for SMEs that want to protect key documents and share them securely without investing in complex infrastructure.

Key Features of AxCrypt

• AES-256 encryption for local files.
• Sharing of encrypted files between users.
• Centralized password management and recovery.
• Integration with external cloud storage.
• Simple interface and available in multiple languages.

Pros of AxCrypt

• Very easy to use for teams without technical knowledge.
• Good value for money.

Cons of AxCrypt

• Does not have its own cloud storage.
• Less suitable for large corporations.

AxCrypt Plans and Pricing

• Business Plan: from €10/user/month.
• No free plan offered in the business version.

4. VeraCrypt - The best for having full control over your data

VeraCrypt is an open-source encryption tool that enjoys great prestige among cybersecurity professionals. It is more technical than NordLocker, but offers total control over data protection without relying on external servers.

Although its use requires more technical knowledge, it is ideal for companies that need full control over their encryption infrastructure and want to avoid proprietary solutions. That said, it is not a storage or collaboration solution, although it compensates for this with a very high level of security.

VeraCrypt allows encrypting entire hard drives, external drives or individual files, and is especially valued by organizations seeking a free, auditable solution without dependency on external servers. That said, its implementation and maintenance require in-house technical resources.

It is highly recommended for technically knowledgeable companies looking for a 100% local solution with no ties to external services, such as law firms or R&D labs.

Key features of VeraCrypt

• Full encryption of hard drives and partitions.
• Creation of hidden encrypted volumes.
• Advanced algorithms such as AES, Serpent, Twofish.
• Open source, free of charge and commercial licenses.

Pros of VeraCrypt

• Maximum transparency and control over security.
• Free and no dependency on third parties.

Cons of VeraCrypt

• Not suitable for non-technical users.
• No sharing features or integrated cloud.

VeraCrypt plans and pricing

• Completely free (open source license).
• No commercial versions.

5. Microsoft BitLocker - Ideal for businesses operating with Windows operating system

BitLocker is the built-in encryption system in Windows, which allows full disk encryption. For companies already operating in Microsoft environments, BitLocker can be a very effective option with no additional costs if managed properly.

BitLocker comes integrated in professional versions of Windows and can be managed at the corporate level via group policies (GPO) or Microsoft Endpoint Manager.

Although it is not as flexible as other solutions for sharing encrypted files externally, it offers excellent protection against unauthorized access to company devices. It is ideal for protecting laptops and mobile devices against theft or loss.

Although it does not have cloud storage functions, it differs from NordLocker by being invisible to the end user once configured, and by integrating perfectly into IT-managed environments.

As expected, we recommend using BitLocker for businesses and corporations already operating in Windows environments that need to protect devices centrally and automatically.

Key features of BitLocker

• Full disk encryption.
• Integration with Active Directory and group policies (GPO).
• Key recovery for administrators.
• Works with TPM for secure authentication.

Pros of BitLocker

• No additional cost for Windows Pro or Enterprise users.
• Centralized management in corporate environments.

Cons of BitLocker

• Does not encrypt individual files or allow sharing.
• Not cross-platform nor compatible with macOS.

BitLocker plans and pricing

• Included in Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education.
• No additional cost if Microsoft licenses are already owned.

Which alternative to choose depending on your company type and needs

Choosing the right encryption tool depends greatly on the size of your company, your level of privacy requirements, the available budget, and how your team works. Below, we help you decide which option is most convenient according to different business profiles:

For companies with limited budget: AxCrypt Business or Microsoft BitLocker

If you need to protect files and your company doesn’t have a large budget, AxCrypt Business is an affordable, easy-to-use option with the essential features for encryption and secure sharing.

And for companies working with a Windows license, BitLocker is an excellent no-cost alternative, ideal for protecting drives and laptops simply and effectively.

For large companies or regulated sectors: Tresorit

Tresorit offers an ideal combination of advanced security, regulatory compliance (GDPR, HIPAA, etc.) and user control at the enterprise level. It is a professional platform designed for large teams and environments requiring traceability, auditing, and robust access policies, so this should be your preferred option if you meet the above requirements. 

For users or companies with high privacy needs: Proton Drive or VeraCrypt

If your main priority is privacy and absolute control over your data, Proton Drive offers end-to-end encryption with servers in Switzerland and a clear zero-access policy.

For the more technical users who prefer to have full control, VeraCrypt allows encrypting entire drives without relying on third parties, ideal for highly sensitive environments.

For distributed teams and remote work: Tresorit or Proton Drive

Tresorit facilitates secure collaboration among employees in different locations, with advanced sharing, synchronization, and access control features.

And if your team is smaller but also values security and simplicity, Proton Drive also offers a very practical solution for sharing encrypted files in the cloud without complications.

Which option to choose?

Conclusion: What is the best alternative to NordLocker on the market?

After thoroughly analyzing the main alternatives to NordLocker throughout this article, we have found that there is no single tool that is “the best” in absolute terms.

Each solution meets a different company profile and specific needs, which forces us to consider key factors such as: budget, required level of privacy, team size, or type of available technological infrastructure.

• Tresorit positions itself as the most complete option for large companies or regulated sectors, thanks to its comprehensive approach to encryption, access control, and regulatory compliance.
• Proton Drive, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prioritize absolute privacy, combining end-to-end encryption with servers located in Switzerland and a “zero tracking” philosophy.
• For teams with fewer resources or more specific needs, AxCrypt Business offers a simple and effective solution without technical complications, while Microsoft BitLocker is extremely useful for protecting devices in Windows environments without additional costs.
• And VeraCrypt is a very powerful and free tool, especially suitable for those with technical knowledge who want total control over their own data without relying on external services.

The best alternative to NordLocker will depend on your specific context: how much you can invest, what type of data you handle, how distributed your team is, and what level of control you need over the infrastructure. That is why our final recommendation is to try at least two or three of these tools in a controlled environment, analyze their integration with your workflows, and evaluate which one fits your daily needs best.

Investing in file encryption is not just a technical measure: it is a strategic decision to protect your company’s most valuable information. Choosing well can make the difference between a fatal leak or just a scare.