> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.cyphor.net/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.cyphor.net/cli-tool/obfuscator/protecting-files.md).

# Protecting files

There are two methods to set up obfuscation tasks, what differentiates them is solely the way in which the task is created. Below you can read about each approach and choose the one that fits your use-case best.

## **Manual Obfuscation**

For those who are testing out different settings, manual obfuscation allows users to specify each setting on the fly. This method is perfect for first-time users or those fine-tuning their obfuscation process.

## T**emplate-Based Obfuscation**

Template-based obfuscation is the go-to choice for repetitive tasks. Instead of redefining your obfuscation settings every time, you can rely on pre-defined templates that contain rules dictating how files within your project are obfuscated.

If you haven't created a template, you can read more about them here: [Task templates](/cli-tool/obfuscator/task-templates.md)


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.cyphor.net/cli-tool/obfuscator/protecting-files.md?ask=<question>&goal=<endgoal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.