Microsoft Windows XP professional users

The below steps for encrypting the files on Windows XP professional applies to users who are using a computer that has different accounts. If youre using a single account for all users who use the computer you will need to see the below other security solutions section.

1. Select the folder you wish to encrypt.
2. Right-click the folder and click Properties.
3. Click the Advanced button.
4. Check "Encrypt contents to secure data" option.
5. Click Apply and then Ok.

Encrypt contents to secure data is grayed out

This will be grayed out if youre using the home edition of Microsoft Windows XP. See the below steps for securing the contents of your folders in Windows XP home.

Show "Encrypt" on the context menu

The newest version of TweakUI also enables you to show the Encrypt option in the context menu. To do this, follow the below steps.

1. Open TweakUI. If you do not have TweakUI you can find additional details about getting and installing TweakUI in document CH000141.
2. In the TweakUI window, select Explorer
3. In the right side of the window under Settings, locate "Show Encrypt on context menu" and check the box. This option should be below "Prefix shortcut to on new shortcuts" and above "Show View workgroup computers in NetPlaces".

If youre missing this option, see document CH000711 for additional information.