> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.guardware.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.guardware.com/protect/encryption-and-policies/avoid-folders.md).
# Avoid Folders
The **Avoid Folders** section lets you define directories that can be **excluded from encryption**.\
Files stored in these folders will not be encrypted by PROTECT, even if they include sensitive words or match any pre-defined Data Type.
Some default directories are preconfigured and should not be removed, as they are required for proper system functionality.
{% hint style="info" %}
Use this feature carefully to avoid accidental exposure of sensitive data.
{% endhint %}
### **Add a Directory to Exclude**
1. Go to **PROTECT > Avoid Folders**.
2. Click **+New Directory**.\
3. In **Title**, enter a name for this exclusion rule. Example: Accounting Temp Folder.
4. In **Directory,** enter the full directory path that should be excluded from encryption.\
Example:\
`C:\Users\Public\AccountingTemp\`
5. In **Sub Folders**, click **+** and add a complete path of subfolders within the directory that **must continue to be encrypted**. These subfolders override the exclusion rule of the folder.\
\
While the main directory is excluded from encryption, any subfolder added here will **continue to follow normal encryption rules**. This allows you to exclude a directory for operational needs while still protecting specific subfolders that contain sensitive or regulated information.\
\
Use the **+** button to add multiple subfolders.
{% hint style="info" %}
You must enter a complete path in the **Directory** and **Sub Folder**.
{% endhint %}
**Example:**\
If you add `C:\CompanyData\TempProcessing\` to **Avoid Folders** and specify `C:\CompanyData\TempProcessing\Inbound\` and `C:\CompanyData\TempProcessing\Archive\` as excluded subfolders, all other subfolders within `TempProcessing` will not be encrypted, while only these two specified subfolders will be encrypted.
* `C:\CompanyData\TempProcessing\` → **Not encrypted**
* `C:\CompanyData\TempProcessing\Inbound\` → **Encrypted**
* `C:\CompanyData\TempProcessing\Archive\` → **Encrypted**
* `Other sub folders inside TempProcessing` → **Not Encrypted**
6. Click **Save**.
The directory will appear in the **Directory List**, where it can be edited or removed later.
### Edit a Directory
1. Go to **PROTECT > Avoid Folders**.
2. Search for the directory to edit and click the **Edit** icon in the **ACTIONS** column.\
3. Update the necessary information and click **Save**.
### Delete a Directory
1. Go to **PROTECT > Avoid Folders**.
2. Search for the directory to delete and click the **Delete** icon in the **ACTIONS** column.
3. Click **Delete** in the Confirmation Alert.
---
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