Private File is a utility program which allows a user to encrypt files using the AES (Rijndael) FIPS 197 algorithm. Private File automatically compresses all encrypted files and comes with a 'Secure Delete' capability. Users can also create 'Self-Extracting' encrypted files which can be sent to others who do not have the software installed. A passphrase protected 'Key Store' is provided as an 'Aide Memoir' which permits users store multiple keys which can be reused on a regular basis. Private File could be described as a compression utility with 'Strong Encryption'.