WinGuard Free Edition offers a simple yet effective method of locking numerous aspects of Windows to prevent tampering.

It can be used to lock programs, folders or files and a few other predefined elements. Once locked these items are only accessible to those with the correct password.

A small icon sits in the system tray (although this can be hidden if you would prefer). The program is password protected for security.

Program locking is limited to 20 pre-selected programs that include ScanDisk, Registry Editor, Remove Programs, Outlook Express, Internet Options and Windows Media Player.

Absolutely any file or folder can be encrypted or decrypted at the click of a button.

Other items such as the Desktop, Windows Explorer and Task Manager can also be locked.

This free version also comes with a pop-up blocker.