windows encrypted files

[nighthawk]

I have some encrypted files and I wonder what will happen when I reinstall windows. Will I be able to access them if I use the same username and password?

[johneva]

Not sure do you have a spare HDD to try first?

[nighthawk]

Why do I need spare HDD, I can do this with only one HDD I have (maxtor 40 GB). Files are on another partition so they will not be erased, but the question is can i access them after reinstalation.

[pratam]

one of my frnd had encrypted some of his file and reinstalled his OS, we cudnt get the file decrypted. wat do u say u hav any solution, ?

[nighthawk]

I've done some reading on this. You need to back up your keys and certificates, if you lose them you can't repair your encrytped files, and only solution is to delete them, which is good thing, because if there was an easy way to decrypt them, then encryption would be very unsafe.

I forgot exactly how you back up certificates, but there are plenty of articles on the web.


I think that using other programs to encrypt your data, such as steganos, or cryptainer (which is free, but each storage unit is limited to 25 MB) is easier and safer than window's built in function.

[pratam]

hey frnd , i hav already reinstalled my system.. the only things i hav is encrypted file... wat do u say .. any solution.....