Show Me Microsoft Windows XP (2nd Edition)

If your computer uses NTFS, you can use the advanced Encrypting File System (EFS) to protect sensitive data files on your computer. If someone tries to gain access to encrypted files or a folder on your computer, a unique file encryption key prevents that person from viewing it. When you encrypt a file, you also need to decide whether you want to encrypt the folder, too. When you encrypt a folder, you need to decide whether you want to encrypt all files and subfolders within it.

Encrypt or Decrypt a File or Folder

Right-click the file or folder you want to encrypt, and then click Properties.

Click the General tab.

Click Advanced.

Select the Encrypt Contents To Secure Data check box to encrypt the file or folder or clear the check box to decrypt it.

Click OK.

Click OK.

Click an option to apply changes to this folder only or to this folder, subfolders, and files.

Click OK.