file encryption

dave m

if you are required to secure files with EFS does the individual user, or owner of the files have to encrypt files so that he can access them.
or can an administrator encrypt the files on a file server and if so can the user access the files if this method is used.

Webmaster

Encryption on EFS is transparent and automatic. When UserA stores a file on location with EFS enabled, the file will be automatically encrypted with UserA's key. If UserA opens the file it will automatically be decrypted. The user doesn't notice the encryption or decryption.

The Recovey Agent (an Admin is a Recovery Agent by default but you can also make other users Recovery Agents) can decrypt files from all users (i.e. in case UserA left the company for example). An admin only encrypts its own files like any other regular user.