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Backing Up EFS(Encrypted Files) in Windows XP



Introduction

Backing up EFS-encrypted files requires a few specific steps that aren't a part of a normal backup process. It isn't possible to just copy the files to a CD, USB drive, or floppy because the files will become Unencrypted. Instead, you will need to use the Windows Backup Utility. Additionally, along with your files, you must back up the certificate generated by the encryption process. This is necessary in case of hard disk failure or if you need to load the backups onto another computer.

Guide to Windows Backup

  1. Go to Start and select All programs. Then go to Accessories followed by System tools. Then select Backup.
  2. Once in the Backup Utility wizard hit Next. Then select Backup files and settings and hit Next.
  3. On the next window select let me choose what to back up and hit Next.
  4. Select the encrypted files that you want to backup and hit Next.
  5. Finally select the location to back the files up to and hit Next. You are now finished backing up the files.

Guide to Backing up Certificate

  1. Click on Start, and select Run and type in mcc and hit Ok.
  2. once the utility opens go to File then select Add/Remove snap-in
  3. Once that new window opens select Add and select Certificates and click add and choose My user account and then click Finish.
  4. After that makes sure to hit Close then Ok. You should now be back in the Add/Remove snap-in window and there should be a object called Certificates select it and hit Ok.
  5. Once on the console root window you will see Certificates. Double click on it and then double click on Personal and then Certificates again.
  6. Now you will want to right click on the the certificate that shows up on the right side and select All tasks the select Export.
  7. Once in the Export Utility hit Next then select Yes, export the private key and hit next.
  8. make sure Enable strong protection is checked and hit next.
  9. Now you will enter a password twice. Do not lose this password because if you do you will not be able to access these that you backed up. and hit next
  10. Now you will enter a filename and hit Browse to select the location to save the file. Once you hit Next you are finished.


Current Record: 3317

Create Date: 03-13-2007
Last Reviewed: 08-01-2007
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