Encrypt Decrypt File

Encryption a process of altering data or information using some algorithm or a secret code.  The data thus encrypted cannot be read by others as it is unintelligent to unauthorized users. 

On Windows computer Encryption can be done using the Encryption File System (EFS). The EFS feature was introduced with NTFS version 3.0. With Encryption File System user data is more secure. The EFS is bundled with NTFS , hence it can be managed easily and cannot be cracked easily.

How to Encrypt File / Folder?

Encryption of a file or folder should be done when they have confidential and important data within. To encrypt a file or folder on NTFS formatted Windows computer follow the simple steps:

• To open Windows Explorer, Click on       

Start > All Programs > Windows Explorer

• Locate and right click the file in the window and click Properties.
• Click Advanced button from the General tab.

Fig. 1 Encrypting File / Folder

• Select the Encrypt contents to secure data check box, under Compress or Encrypt attributes and click OK
• Once user clicks OK a pop-up asks to confirm the changes made.

Fig. 2 Confirm Encyption

Once the Attribute changes are applied, the folder or file will be encrypted. During encryption a folder or file, you should back up your encryption certificate.

Decrypting File / Folder

To decrypt any file or folder follow the steps.

• In the Windows Explorer right-click on folder or file you want to decrypt, and click Properties.
• Click the General tab, and then click Advanced.
• Uncheck the Encrypt contents to secure data check box, and then click OK.

Encryption and decryption on Windows computer is done by EFS, for safe transmission over the network EFS can be used with other network protocols.

The message before the process of encryption is known as plain text, ‘cipher ‘converts the plain text to unreadable ciphertext.  The encryption is done on the Sender’s end and is decrypted on the Receiver’s end. Decryption is the reverse procedure of encryption; it decodes the ciphertext to plain text which can be read and understood by receiver. There are softwares available for encryption and decryption of files which are to be transmitted safely across many networks. 

Related Information

Recover Files from Formatted NTFS Partition
Files are encrypted on NTFS partition to restrict its access to certain people. To others these file would be encoded and of no clear meaning. While formatting NTFS partition user might not realize the important encrypted files. Are you one such user? Read the article and un-format encrypted files from NTFS partition after formatting.

NTFS File Recovery
Your EFS encrypted files stored on Windows NTFS partition might be deleted accidentally. In a hassle you might delete an important encrypted file using Shift + Delete key combination. If you are facing such issue, then don’t worry we have perfect solution for your problem – Remo Recover (Windows).