Windows 10: encryption help

I upgraded my version of windows a couple of years ago so I could encrypt some files. After a few months, I gave the computer that I upgraded windows on to my other half. Before I gave it to them I put the encrypted files on an external hard drive and then reinstalled windows, which obviously removed my upgraded version of windows. I now have file that are padlock/ encrypted which I can't open - Duh!Is there any way of opening these files ever again?

:)

 

Device Encryption not avaiable

Hello Fraczek,

Thank you for contacting Microsoft Community.

We understand your concern in this regard.

• Are you referring to BitLocker Drive Encryption?
• What preventing you from doing this?
• Did you get any error message or code while doing this?

Before you come up with the above information, suggest you to refer the article

Help protect your files using BitLocker Drive Encryption and see if it help you.

Do refer the article
Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption Step-by-Step Guide and check if it help you with the required information.

Keep us posted if you require further assistance.

 

Help! File permission errors in encrypted folder

Hi Bill,

To assist you better, I would like to ask some questions:

• Are you the Administrator of the computer?
• Are you connected to a domain network?

I suggest you to decrypt the folder by following the steps below and check if it helps.

• Right-click the folder or file you want to decrypt, and then click Properties.
• 
  Click the General tab, and then click Advanced.
  
• 
  Clear the Encrypt contents to secure data check box, click
  OK, and then click OK again.
  

Keep us posted on the status for further assistance.

 

Encrypting a folder

Hello Bill,

To encrypt a folder in Windows 10 Home, follow these steps:

• Right-click the folder you want to encrypt and click Properties.
• On the General tab, click Advanced.
• Under Compress or Encrypt attributes, click Encrypt contents to secure data.
• Click OK then Apply to save the changes.

We're just here if you need further help.