When should I encrypt files and folders?You should encrypt files or folders when you think it is important that they have the strongest protection that Windows can provide. Because encrypting files and folders is easy, you might be tempted to encrypt all of your information. You can do that, but there are some things to keep in mind: | • | You need to make sure that you back up your encryption certificate and encryption key, and store them in a safe place. If your encryption certificate and key are lost or damaged, you won't be able to use the files that you have encrypted. For more information, see Back up Encrypting File System (EFS) certificate. | | • | If you encrypt a folder, any files that you create in that folder will be automatically encrypted. | | • | Other people who want access to files or folders that you encrypt must have their own Encryption File System (EFS) certificate added to the files. With this certificate, they can access the encrypted files or folders when they are working on your computer. If the files are shared, they can access them from another computer running Windows. | | • | If you copy or move a file to a computer or volume that does not use the NTFS file system, the file will be decrypted. |
Encryption key __elbasuer__ Encryption key
A sequence of symbols or characters used to scramble or unscramble information that is being encrypted or decrypted.
Certificate
A digital document that verifies the identity of a person or indicates the security of a website. Certificates are issued by trusted companies known as Certification Authorities.
NTFS file system __elbasuer__ NTFS file system
A file system for formatting computer hard disks so they can store information. NTFS provides several improvements over earlier file allocation table (FAT) file systems, including file and folder permissions, encryption, and file compression.
Volume
A storage area on a hard disk that is formatted with a file system. Volumes have drive letters assigned to them. A single hard disk can have multiple volumes. Some volumes can span multiple hard disks.
Encrypted
The condition of information being scrambled so that it can be read only by someone who has the appropriate key to unscramble it. Encryption can be applied to files or to information exchanged over a network connection.
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