[Day 3] 8. PKI Lab (Encryption and Decryption)

Prerequisite

• A Windows Machine (any edition except Windows Home).
• Familiarity with the Encrypting File System (EFS) by Microsoft.

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Folder Structure Setup

Create the following folder and file tree structure:

Copy
demo/
├── one/
│   ├── oneone/
│   │   └── oneone.txt
│   └── one.txt
└── two/
    ├── twotwo/
    │   └── twotwo.txt
    └── two.txt

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Step 1: Check Encryption Status

1. Open the command prompt and navigate to the folder where the structure is created.

2. Run the following command:

   bashCopy
   cipher
   

   • Files marked with
     Copy

     U

     indicate they are unencrypted.

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Step 2: Encrypting Folders and Files Using

Copy

cipher

1. Encrypt a Specific Folder:

   bashCopy
   cipher /e one\oneone
   

   • Encrypts the
     Copy

     oneone

     folder.

2. Encrypt All Files in a Folder:

   bashCopy
   cipher /e one\oneone\*
   

   • Encrypts all files inside the
     Copy

     oneone

     folder.

3. Encrypt a Folder Recursively:

   bashCopy
   cipher /e /s:two
   

   • Encrypts the
     Copy

     two

     folder along with all its subfolders and files.
   • The
     Copy

     /s

     flag ensures the encryption is applied recursively.

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Step 3: Encrypting Files Using the GUI

1. Right-click on the folder you want to encrypt.
2. Select Properties.
3. Click on Advanced under the General tab.
4. Check the box Encrypt contents to secure data and click Apply followed by OK.

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This process secures the selected folders and files, ensuring only authorized users can access the encrypted data.