Windows 11 (64-bit)

Windows 10 (64-bit, version 1809 or later)

Memory (RAM): 100 MB of available RAM (Minimum); 256 MB (Recommended).

Disk Space: Application:** ~50 MB for the initial installation.

File System Access: KeyLock requires read/write permissions for its installation directory and whichever directory you choose for your database files.

Installer Privileges: The Standard Installer requires Administrative Privileges to create the necessary directories in C:\Program Files and to register the application with Windows.

Standalone Permissions: The Standalone version can be run with Standard User permissions, provided it is placed in a directory where the user already has write access (e.g., a folder on the Desktop or a personal Documents folder). === Initial Download Options

Standard Installer: Recommended for most users. The installer handles all directory creation, system shortcuts, and registry entries for a smooth Windows experience.

Standalone Executable: Designed for the experienced user who demands total control over where the program resides. This version does not use a formal installation process; you simply place the executable in your preferred directory.

Installation Path: The default is C:\Program Files\KeyLock, but you can specify any local directory.

Startup Option: Check this box to have KeyLock launch automatically when you sign into Windows.

Desktop Icon: Creates a KeyLock shortcut for quick access.

Program Files: Stores the executable and necessary system assets.

App Data: Stores user configuration settings and local logs.

Default Database Folder: Typically created in your Documents\KeyLock Databases folder. This folder is the default location where your databases, backups and exports are stored.

You choose exactly where your database lives—whether on a local hard drive or your favorite Public cloud provider such as Google Drive or Dropbox.

By storing your database in public cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive, you can install KeyLock on multiple Windows machines such as your Desktop, Laptop or Work Computer and access your database vault from anywhere.

The application never transmits your master password or unencrypted data over the internet. Encryption and decryption happen solely on your local machine.

Because KeyLock uses PBKDF2 key derivation and AES-authenticated Fernet encryption, your Master Password is the only key to the vault. If lost, the data is mathematically impossible to recover. We recommend using the "Password Hint" feature or keeping a physical copy of your master password in a safe or fireproof box.

KeyLock adheres to a strict Zero-Knowledge policy. Because the application does not have a "backdoor" and does not store your master password in any form, there is no recovery process. This is a deliberate security feature: if a recovery method existed for you, it would also exist for a hacker. You are the sole custodian of your data.

Fernet (AES-128/256):

Key Derivation:

The Database Structure:

New Database (Ctrl+N): Initiates a secure wizard to create a fresh Database. This includes a mandatory security warning, master password setup, and optional hint creation.

Open Database (Ctrl+O): Allows you to navigate to and select an existing .db file.

Recent Databases: Displays a list of up to 5 previously used databases for rapid switching.

Save Database (Ctrl+S): Does a quick save of the open database.

Save Database As (Ctrl+Shift+S): Brings up a Explorer screen allowing you to save the current database utilizing a new database name. This also utilizes the same password from the current database. If needed, You can change the password with the menu Database > Change Master Password.

Close Database (Ctrl+W): Safely locks the current database and clears all data from the application’s memory and returns the app to a locked state.

Delete Database: Brings up Explorer view allowing you to delete a database. To delete, you must enter the Master Password, confirm you want to delete the database and one final warning. Use caution, this database and its contents are deleted forever.

Lock Database (Ctrl+L): Locks the current database and displays the Password entry screen.

Import, Export, & Data Merging: Support for CSV files to allow easy migration from other password managers or to create unencrypted backups (use with caution).

Import Logic: Supports CSV files.

Export Logic: Allows you to export your data to an unencrypted CSV file for storing on USB drives or other storage. Warning: Exported files are not encrypted and should be stored securely or deleted immediately after use.

Backup: Brings up an Explorer window pre populating the backup filename as: database-name_backup_date_time. Backup files are stored as encrypted .enc files. It is highly recommended that you backup often. You will need to know your Master Password to Restore from backup.

Restore From Backup: Brings up an Explorer window showing encrypted (.enc) backup files available to restore. You will need to know your Master Password to Restore from backup.

Exit Application (Ctrl+Q): Exits the KeyLock Password Manager application.

New Record (Ctrl+Shift+N): Opens a window to store a new account, including Title, Username, Password, URL, and Notes. Double-Clicking the "URL" field in Table or Record view will open your default browser to that site. The Notes section can store up to 256 characters.

Edit Record (Ctrl+E): Pressing this button opens the Entry Form for editing an existing record for such fields as Title, Username, Password, URL, and Notes. Double-Clicking the "URL" field in Table or Record view will open your default browser to that site. The Notes section can store up to 256 characters.

Delete Record (Del): Deletes the current record selected in table view and places it into the KeyLock Recycle Bin.

Copy User: When pressed will copy the User field information from the selected or open record into the Clip-Board memory. It will remain in memory based on the adjustable setting in the Tools > Settings > Enable clipboard auto-clear. Usually recommended to set this for 15 seconds. For security best practices the clipboard will be cleared.

Copy Password: When pressed will copy the Password from the selected or open record into the Clip-Board memory. It will remain in memory based on the adjustable setting in the Tools > Settings > Enable clipboard auto-clear. Usually recommended to set this for 15 seconds. For security best practices the clipboard will be cleared.

Show Password: Passwords are masked however you can press Show Password and the highlighted record in table view or the open record view will reveal the password for that record.

Undo Last Change (Ctrl+Z): Will undo your last change.

The Password Generator (Ctrl+G): A robust utility to create high-security passwords or simply type and create your own password.

Recycle Bin (Ctrl+R): When you delete a record, it is stored in the Recycle Bin providing you an opportunity to Delete Permanently or to Restore.

Settings: Includes preferences, such as database auto-lock and clipboard auto-clear timers, meeting security best practices. Setting to Launch KeyLock on computer startup, Open last database used, auto-save on close and remembering the KeyLock screen position and window size.

User Manual (F1): An online version of the KeyLock Password Manager User Manual

Check for Updates (Ctrl+U): This will display your current version and the latest version of the KeyLock Password Manager application available for download.

Keyboard Shortcuts