Introduction
In this blog post we will see how to compress files and encrypt with password (zip and encrypt using AES algorithm). We will use SSIS Zip File Task which comes with many advanced options including encryption feature for password protected zip files.
NOTE: Password feature is only available for Zip file format. If you choose GZip (*.gz) format then encrypt feature is not available.
Zip multiple files using SSIS Compression Task
SSIS Zip File Task offers creating zip file for each source file in the list (i.e. when you use wildcard e.g. *.txt) or create one zip file for all files from source.
Here is the screenshot of how to Zip multiple files
How to Compress multiple files using SSIS Zip file Task (Encrypt using Password)
Password protect Zip file (AES encryption – AES128, AES256)
To protect zip file with password specify password on security tab and select Encryption Algorithm. See below screenshot
Password protect Zip file using SSIS (Encrypt using AES256 algorithm, Hide file names from compressed archive)
Unzip password protected file
To unzip password protected file you can use same settings on Security Tab except change your source, target and action.
Hide file list from encrypted Zip file (Double Zip Technique)
When you password protect Zip file one common issue you may face it will allow anyone to see file names inside archive (i.e. zip file). Even though actual content of file is encrypted sometimes you want to hide files stored inside your archive. If you have need to hide file names from archive then use below technique. Basically you have to double zip/encrypt. See above screenshot.
Conclusion
Zip/Unzip is most common need while exchanging data. Securing files can be even more important. If you are SSIS developer then SSIS Zip File Task can be used with ease of use. Zip file task is part of SSIS PowerPack. Try for free and explore many features which can save your time and give peace of mind.
