At times we need to encrypt data on our computer, Windows comes with the functionality called Encrypted File System (EFS) and it’s quite easy to enable. However, through various forums we have realized users are facing problem where Windows 10 can’t encrypt folder. This feature of Windows allows you to lock your files and folders using encryption and only you can open the file from your Windows account. To encrypt contents to secure data on windows 7/8/10 you need to right click on a folder > choose Properties > Advanced > select Encrypt content to secure data > click Ok.
This step will encrypt your file or folder; however, if Encrypt content is greyed out in your computer, we will help you resolve this issue. Follow the below steps and you can easily enable the functionality.
Ensure that you are logged-in as the administrator to enable Encrypt File System using the Registry.
Method 1. Using Registry
This option is not working for you because some of the Registry values are not set right. Follow the steps:
- Press the Windows button + R simultaneously, a dialogue box will appear.
- Type regedit and press Ok when Windows asks “Do you want this app to make changes to your computer”.
c) Type HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem into the Registry Editor Window and hit Enter
d) FileSystem should automatically expand in the right window; however, if it does not, do it manually.
e) Double-click on NtfsDisableEncryption
f) Set the value to 0 in the dialog box and click Ok.
By clicking Ok, the settings will be saved. Reboot the computer after performing all the above steps. However, you must be careful with the registry because if you don’t do it right it can cause serious problems. For the protection of your Registry, backup the registry before modifying it. Follow the below steps to back up the Registry.
How to back up and restore the registry in Windows to its default. If the above method did not work for you try this method
Method 2: How to back up and restore the registry in Windows.
- Press Windows + R, and type services.msc.
- Double-click on Encrypting File System.
- Change the Startup type from Manual to Automatic
- Hit Apply, then OK.
- Restart your PC.
Method 3: Enable Encrypt Contents to Secure Data in Windows 10 Home and other OS
The Windows Command line also allows you to enable the EFS on your computer. Perform this simple command and you can enable the feature and secure your data. Follow the below steps to enable encrypt content to secure data.
- Open Cortana in Windows 10 and search for other Windows and type cmd > double-click on Command Prompt
- Type this command fsutil behavior set disableencryption 0 and hit enter.
- Restart the computer