When combined with a PC’s trusted platform module (TPM), BitLocker can provide advanced security features, including hardware-level encryption. Encrypting files and folders using BitLockerīitLocker is a full-disk encryption solution that enables you to encrypt an entire hard drive at once. You may also use a DVD or portable hard disk to backup your encryption key. Note: The PC owner can access an EFS-encrypted file locally, but the files will remain inaccessible for all other user accounts.

In the “Advanced Attributes” dialogue box, under “Compress or Encrypt Attributes” section, uncheck “Encrypt contents to secure data” option.

Right-click on the file or folder you want to decrypt and select “Properties”.

Name to your encryption backup file and click “Save”ĭecrypting the encrypted file/folder is just as easy with the following steps:.

Check the “Password” box to enter a new password.

Check on “.PFX” file format to export your certificate file and click “Next”.

Click “Next” to create your encryption certificate.

Ensure you have a USB flash drive plugged into your PC.

In the “Backup your file encryption certificate and key” prompt, choose “Backup now”.

Backup your EFS encryption key with the following steps: To avoid file loss if the key gets corrupted, Windows will prompt you to backup the encryption key immediately after encryption. Only you can access the encrypted files or folders. Files and folders you've encrypted with EFS will feature a small padlock icon in the top-right corner of the thumbnail. The encryption process is now complete, and Windows will automatically create an encryption key and save it locally to your PC.

If encrypting a folder, a window will pop up asking you to choose between “Apply change to this folder only” and “Apply changes to this folder, subfolders and files.” Select your preference and click “OK” to save the change(s).

In the “Advanced Attributes” dialogue box, under “Compress or Encrypt Attributes” section, checkmark on “Encrypt contents to secure data”.

In the “General” tab of “Properties,” click on the “Advanced” button.

Right-click on the file or folder you want to encrypt and select “Properties”.

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