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GnuPG

Free OpenPGP implementation for encrypting files and email

88.5
Score in best file encryption software
Visit gnupg.org Alternatives

Ranked 3 of 6 in best file encryption software

The main free OpenPGP implementation, under GPL-3.0, for files and email on Windows, macOS and Linux. Setup is technical, and most use needs the command line or a front end such as Gpg4win.

Best for OpenPGP encryption for files and email

About GnuPG

GnuPG implements the OpenPGP standard, so keys and messages work with other OpenPGP software. Its command-line tool is the core of the project. Gpg4win provides a Windows installer with a crypto manager and an Outlook plugin, and GPG installers from the GPGTools project cover macOS. Linux distributions package GnuPG directly.

GnuPG is free software under the GNU General Public License, version 3, and the project publishes source releases and mailing lists. It suits people who want OpenPGP for files and email and are comfortable managing keys, because setup is more technical than consumer encryption tools.

Key features

  • OpenPGP standard
  • Command-line tool
  • Gpg4win for Windows
  • GPG installers for macOS
  • GPLv3 licensed

Strengths

  • Free software under GPL version 3
  • Interoperates with other OpenPGP software
  • Installers for Windows and macOS, and Linux packages

Limits

  • Command-line setup is more technical than consumer tools
  • Key management falls to the user

Where GnuPG ranks

Alternatives to GnuPG

All 5 alternatives

Compare GnuPG

Questions about GnuPG

Is GnuPG free?
GnuPG can be used without paying: Free software under the GNU General Public License. Check the vendor’s pricing page for current limits.
Is GnuPG open source?
Yes. GnuPG publishes its source code under the GPL-3.0 license.
Which platforms does GnuPG support?
GnuPG is available on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line.
What is GnuPG best for?
OpenPGP encryption for files and email. In our ranking of file encryption software it is number 3 of 6 with a score of 88.5.
What are the best alternatives to GnuPG?
The highest-ranked alternatives on listme.name are VeraCrypt, Cryptomator, age, AxCrypt.

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Ranked #3 of 6 file encryption software on listme.name
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