Not all editions of Windows OS support Encrypting File System(EFS). In the unsupported editions if you go to properties and advanced you see that the check button “Encrypt contents to secure data” option is not configurable and is greyed out. Below listed are the Windows editions which does not support native windows EFS feature.
- Windows XP Home
- Vista Home Basic
- Vista Home Premium
- Windows 7 Starter
- Windows 7 Home Basic
- Windows 7 Home Premium
Below is a snapshot on Windows XP Home edition.
Some Questions on File Encryption:
I am running one of the EFS unsupported editions; Does it mean that I can’t encrypt files on my computer?
No, you still can encrypt files. You can use any of the third party encryption tools available in the internet. Go through the reviews and pick up the best one that suits your requirements.
My Windows supports EFS and encrypt conents to secure data is not disabled. But the details button next to it is greyed out. Why?
The Details button gets activated only when the file is in encrypted state. You can check this yourself. This button shows which users have transparent access to read the file.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Is there any way to add this EFS feature to a Windows 7 home premium OS? Any hack or installing some software?
There is no way to add EFS feature to home editions. You may try if there are any 3rd party software to encrypt files..
Try TrueCrypt, instead. Works great.
win 98 had pword pro for folders. time to get a mac