Although you can encrypt files using some clever tricks with your Mac’s built-in utilities, it’s not as simple as one could expect. Where’s the easiness that your Mac is renowned of? Well, there’s now a clever and simple solution called BitClamp to do the job for you. Keep on reading for the full review and an opportunity to win a free license of the software.

Design. BitClamp is being called as the “AppZapper of encryption”, thanks to its nearly identical user interface it shares with said app. It’s a simple window that prompts you to drag and drop all the stuff that you wish to encrypt. Once items are added for encryption, it’s easy to add or remove items to share the same encryption process. Something that many Mac users will be pleased to hear is that it has BitClamp has Growl support from the start to enhance the overall experience.

Functionality. As for the algorithms, BitClamp supports 128 bit AES and Serpent, and 64 bit BlowFish encryption. Once all the files are selected, all that is left to do is choose the password under which they’ll be encrypted. As for the password’s strength, there’s a tiny floating window that shows to you whether it is weak, okay, or strong. On the tests performed on a MacBook Pro, encryption was almost instantaneous on small files, and also somewhat speedy for larger ones. Once the encrypted file is produced, only the assigned password will be able to open it. And if you need to send the file to someone else, they can download the free decrypter from the app’s website, and with the password they’ll be able to get to its contents.

Limitations. Windows version? It’s coming for free in Q1 2008 to all current owners, since it’ll still be in the 1.x release range. So unless you’re in dire need of cross-platform compatibility, there’s nothing bad with this app.

Final thoughts. BitClamp is the best encryption app for everyone who likes to keep things simple (as the Mac is known for!). With its ease of use, simpleness, and security, it’s hard to miss this great piece of software — especially with the security issues in today’s virtual world. The best news is that you can eveb get BitClamp for the promotional price of $10 exclusively at TheMacPak’s website between the 1st and 7th of November, or for $15 between the 8th and 14th of November. After that, you’ll be able to get it at the higher price of $20 everywhere else it may be sold.

Giveaway! Thanks to the developer, there’s one license of BitClamp to be given away to one lucky reader. All you have to do is leave a comment telling what feature you would like to see incorporated into the app in a future release. The best idea will be chosen about one week from today. Good luck!