How to Encrypt PC Files

Encrypting PC files is another way of securing documents stored on a computer. This is useful when the contents of a special folder risks ungranted modification. File encryption prevents unauthorized users from opening the file, but not viewing the contents of an encrypted folder that contains the file. A digital certificate thumbprint is created when the file is encrypted.

Instructions

1. Locate the file and "Right-click" on it and select "Properties."

2. Go to the General tab and click "Advanced."

3. 

   Place a check in the box beside "Encrypt contents to secure data."

4. 

   Select the option "Encrypt the file and the parent folder" and then click "OK."

5. Click "Apply and then "OK."

Tips & Warnings

• If the Error Applying Attributes prompt appears after you click on "Apply," click "Ignore All" and then press "OK." Otherwise, you can go back and just encrypt the file, instead of the file and the parent folder to avoid receiving the Error Applying Attributes prompt.

Resources

• Microsoft Help and Support