How do I encrypt files using EFS in Windows 7?

Encrypting File System (EFS) is a feature of Windows that you can use to store information on your hard disk in an encrypted format. To encrypt a folder or file:

Right-click the folder or file you want to encrypt > click Properties > Click the General tab > click Advanced.

Select the Encrypt contents to secure data check box, and then click OK.

To decrypt a folder or file:

Right-click the folder or file you want to decrypt > click Properties > General tab > Advanced.

Clear the Encrypt contents to secure data check box, and then click OK.

Hope this helps.

Thanks and Regards,
Chinmay S

Encryption is the strongest protection that Windows provides to help you keep your information secure.

Some key features of EFS:

Encrypting is simple; just select a check box in the file or folder’s properties to turn it on.

You have control over who can read the files.

Files are encrypted when you close them, but are automatically ready to use when you open them.

If you change your mind about encrypting a file, clear the check box in the file’s properties.

EFS is not fully supported on Windows 7 Starter, Windows 7 Home Basic, and Windows 7 Home Premium. For those editions of Windows, if you have the encryption key or certificate, you can do the following:

Decrypt files by running Cipher.exe in the Command Prompt window (advanced users)

Modify an encrypted file

Copy an encrypted file as decrypted to a hard disk on your computer

Import EFS certificates and keys

Back up EFS certificates and keys by running Cipher.exe in the Command Prompt window (advanced users)