Encryption Methods for ZIP Files in Power Automate Desktop

Applies to Product - Power Automate


What’s happening?
Encryption methods used in the ZIP file action within Power Automate Desktop, specifically whether it utilizes Traditional PKWARE Encryption or Advanced Encryption Standard (AES).

Reason:
The lack of clear documentation regarding the encryption standards used by Power Automate Desktop's ZIP compression feature has led to confusion. Additionally, customer compliance or security requirements may necessitate the use of a specific encryption method, such as AES.

Resolution:

• It has been confirmed that the ZIP file action in Power Automate Desktop uses the standard ZIP encryption format (Traditional PKWARE Encryption).
• Currently, there is no built-in support for AES encryption in the ZIP file action of Power Automate Desktop.
• As an alternative, customers can consider using PowerShell scripts or creating custom actions in Power Automate Desktop using the SDK to apply AES encryption to ZIP files.
• For further information on using PowerShell to compress files or creating custom actions, refer to the following resources: 
  • Compress-Archive using PowerShell
  • Custom Actions for Desktop Flows
• Customers are encouraged to submit feature requests for AES encryption in the Power Automate Ideas forum, as this may lead to future enhancements based on user demand.