How to Encrypt Files in Microsoft Windows

File encryption is a method of making files unreadable to other users of your computer system. Encryption is an excellent way to add security to your data. The following steps will explain how to encrypt files using the Windows XP Encrypting File System and the factors to consider when doing so.

Instructions

Prepare

Use a version of the Microsoft Window XP operating system other than the Home Edition. The file(s) you wish to encrypt must reside on a disk formatted in the Network File System. This is an option available when formatting a drive. You will be prompted to convert your hard drive to NFS when installing Windows XP.


Check your hard drive to ensure it is not compressed. There is generally little reason to compress a hard drive these days. The cost of storage is almost always less important than the reduction in drive performance that compression causes.


Visit the Microsoft Web site to learn more about performing your own technical support.

Encrypt

Right mouse click on the desired file or folder to bring up the content menu in your browser.


Select "Properties."

Click on the "Advanced" button at the bottom of the dialogue box.


Check the "Encrypt contents to secure data" box and click "OK" twice.


Choose to encrypt the file or entire folder when selecting a single file or choose to encrypt subfolders when selecting a folder.


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