How to encrypt folders in Windows 11 without installing third-party programs

Would you like to know how to encrypt folders in Windows 11 without installing third-party programs? It's possible and really simple. With this, you can protect the contents of these folders from unauthorized access. Perfect for safeguard confidential or private documents or content, especially if other people are using your personal equipment or you are in a work environment.

What is the purpose of encrypting folders in Windows 11?

 

In order to encrypt folders in Windows 11, the operating system uses a built-in feature known as EFS (Encrypting File System)This means you don't need to resort to third-party programs or tools to encrypt your folders (or files) on your computer. Using EFS, Windows converts data into a code that prevents unauthorized access.

But Why would anyone want to encrypt a folder on their computer? Here are some of the main reasons:

• Protection of confidential data: Encrypting folders in Windows 11 helps you protect your personal documents, passwords, private photos, and more.
• Security on a shared computer: As long as other users on your PC are not logged into your Windows session, they will not be able to access encrypted folders.
• You avoid information theft- In case your device is lost or stolen, you can prevent others from accessing your folders by encrypting them.
• Compliance with regulationsIn business environments, it is sometimes necessary to encrypt folders to protect company or customer data.

This is how you can encrypt folders in Windows 11 without installing third-party programs.

 

Encrypting folders in Windows 11 is very simple. The only thing you need to keep in mind is that This feature is not available in basic versions of Windows, such as Windows 11 Home. Encryption is only available in Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions of Windows. Below are the Steps to encrypt folders in Windows 11 without installing third-party programs:

1. Locate the folder you want to encrypt.
2. Right click on it.
3. In the drop-down menu, click Properties (you can also right-click on it and press Alt + Enter to enter Properties).
4. Within the General tab (where it initially opens), click “Advanced Options.”
5. Now click on “Encrypt content to protect data.”
6. Tap OK.
7. Afterwards, another window will appear asking you if you want to encrypt the entire folder or just a single file. Select the option you want and click OK.

Caution! Windows may prompt you to do a copy of your encryption certificateIf this happens, it's best to follow the instructions. This is crucial to recovering the files stored in the encrypted folder if you lose access to your personal account.

How does folder encryption work in Windows 11?

What does it mean to encrypt folders in Windows 11? How does it work? The operating system converts the contents of the folder into an unreadable format, which can only be reversed or decrypted with a key linked to your account. This does not mean that when you encrypt a folder, a manual key is generated, as when we protect a PDF with a passwordRather, it's an "invisible" key that's intrinsically linked to your user account.

This means that as long as you're logged in to your account, Windows won't ask you for any additional keys or information to show you the folder you've encrypted. But If someone else with another account accesses your PC, they won't be able to open the folder., since it doesn't have the certificate associated with yours. Also, if someone copies the encrypted folder to another computer, they'd see errors or unreadable files. Even if they access the drive from another operating system like Linux, the encrypted files will still be protected.

Who can see your encrypted folders?

Now, who can see your encrypted folders?Encrypted files and folders in Windows 11 are only visible to the user who encrypted them: you.When you do this, you'll see a lock appear on the folder in the preview. But this won't prevent you from opening and viewing it. Things change when you copy that file or send it to another PC. In that case, a lock will also appear, but the preview won't be displayed. So, as long as you're not using your Windows account and logged in, you won't be able to view or decrypt the contents.

On the other hand, can someone else access your encrypted folder? Honestly, if you want to send an encrypted folder, you can use other tools to password protect it, such as WinRAR, for example. Because for someone else to access your encrypted folder with Windows, you'll have to decipher it first or export your encryption certificate.

What doesn't encryption do?

However, encrypting folders in Windows 11 has its drawbacks. There are actions that folder or file encryption can't prevent. For example, does not prevent someone from deleting the folder, nor does it prevent the entry of viruses or malware. And it's also useless if you want to share files without first decrypting them.

Additionally, if someone gains access to your Windows account, for example, by knowing your password, they can open encrypted files or folders. This is because Windows assumes it's you. It is impossible for Windows to distinguish a third party if they have access to your user profile.: Name, password, and encryption certificate (saved in your profile).

Encrypt Folders in Windows 11: Additional Tips

It's true that encrypting folders in Windows 11 is a great idea so only you have access to the information stored in them. But you can do much more to protect your privacy and security by safeguarding confidential documents or content on your computer. We'll share some tips with you. Tips to better protect your personal Windows account:

• Use a strong password: Avoid obvious information such as names, dates, or common words in your environment.
• Activate automatic lock: Set your computer to automatically lock after a few minutes of inactivity.
• Use biometric authentication or security PIN if possible.
• Do not share your sessionIf someone else needs to use your computer, open a guest session for them. It's the most prudent thing to do.