Windows 2000 doesn't automatically encrypt files when a user drags them into an encrypted folder. Can I change this behavior?

Although Win2K encrypts files when you use the command line to move them into an encrypted folder, the OS doesn't encrypt files that you use the GUI to move. You can't change this "feature" in Win2K, but Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) fixes the problem. When you train users on Encrypting File System (EFS), make sure you explain this behavior as well as other EFS idiosyncrasies, such as the fact that encrypted files don't remain encrypted when users email them.

—Randy Franklin Smith

End of Article


You must log on before posting a comment.

If you don't have a username & password, please register now.

Reader Comments

Win2k (tried it on SP3) DOES encrypt files that you use the GUI to move to an encrypted folder. (the article says it doesn't). It encrypts the file - either when you drag&drop or cut&pasted.

It was correct on Win2k w/o service packs. It would encrypt a file if it was dragged&dropped into an encrypted folder, but wouldn't if cut&paste. But not anymore.

Gin- November 07, 2003