User Manual

Quick Start: How to Use SyLock

This is an explainer video made by NotebookLM to give you clarity.

1. Set Up Your Vault

When you first launch SyLock, you will be asked to create a Master Password. This is your ultimate safety net. Write down any backup phrase provided and store it securely.

2. Encrypt a File

Drag and drop any file (e.g., a PDF, Image, or Video) into the SyLock window.
Enter a password specifically for this file (you can use your Master Password or a unique one).
Click Encrypt. SyLock will generate a locked .enc file.
You can now safely share or store the .enc file anywhere!

3. Decrypt a File

Drag the locked .enc file back into the SyLock window.
Enter the password you used to encrypt it.
Click Decrypt to restore the original file exactly as it was.

4. Emergency Recovery

Forgot the file password? Don't panic! Open the terminal interface in SyLock, type the codeword MASTER_RECOVER, and enter your Master Password to unlock any file encrypted on your device.

Installation

Download the appropriate binary for your system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Since code signing is pending during the beta phase, you may see warnings from your OS indicating the app is unrecognized. You must manually approve the application to run it.

Always verify the checksum before installation using the provided SHA-256 hashes on the downloads page.

First Run & Vault Setup

On first run, you'll be prompted to set a master password. This password wraps your Master Recovery Key. Ensure you write down the recovery shares (if provided) and store them safely. This is your ultimate fallback.

Encrypting & Decrypting Files

Use drag-and-drop into the interface for quick encryption. You can operate in Easy Mode or Advanced Mode. It is vital to remember the file-specific password used, or you will have to rely on your Master Key for recovery.

Secure Notes

SyLock allows you to create, edit, and delete text notes directly within an encrypted environment. The raw text never touches your disk.

Shredder

Securely delete files. Note: On modern SSDs with wear-leveling, secure deletion is not 100% guaranteed on a hardware level. For absolute security, encrypt the file first, then shred it.

Watch Folder

Set up a specific folder that auto-encrypts any file placed inside it. You must set a password before activating. Auto-generated passwords carry a risk if you do not have your Master Key configured properly.

Master Key Management

Your Master Key is distinct from your Master Password. The password merely unlocks the key. Emergency recovery is possible via the MASTER_RECOVER codeword if you lose a file's password but retain the master access.

Security Codewords

SyLock supports special administrative codewords in the terminal:

MASTER_RECOVER: Initiate recovery protocol for a locked file.
CHANGE_MASTER: Update your master password and re-wrap your keys.
SHOW_MASTER: View your current master public key.
CHANGE_PASSWORD: Change the encryption password of a specific file.
VIEW_LOG: View the application's activity and audit log.
CLEAR_LOG: Clear the application's activity log.

Note on Security Codewords: Currently, these codewords are fixed. However, fixed codewords could be discovered by anyone with access to your device. In the upcoming release, you will be able to set custom, personalized triggers for each action to ensure maximum operational security.

FAQ

Is SyLock really offline?

Yes, zero network calls. The application does not communicate externally.

What if I lose my master key?

Your files are lost. Mathematics does not offer a bypass.

When will the source code be public?

After the beta stabilization phase and a thorough security audit are complete.

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