Share this article
Improve this guide
Encrypt Contents to Secure Data Greyed Out [Windows 11 Fix]
Follow a comprehensive guide to solve this error in 5 different ways
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Encrypting your files protects you from prying eyes and unauthorized access by individuals who are looking toaccess or steal your data. But recently, many Windows users have reported that the ability to encrypt contents to secure data is greyed out in Windows 11.
No more worries! We’ve got you covered and will help you resolve this issue by providing fixes allowing you to encrypt your files and folders again.
Why is the encryption option greyed out in Windows 11?
An error inside the registry value is the main cause of this issue. The error inside the registry value can be caused by the following:
For those who are reporting that the Encrypt contents to secure data is greyed out in Windows 11 Home, you should be aware that the Encrypted File System (EFS) is not included in the Windows Home edition of the operating system, so it’s normal for it to be greyed out.
To utilize EFS, you will first need to update your Windows to either the Education, Enterprise or Pro editions. Only then will you be able to encrypt your files.
What can I do if Encrypt contents to secure data option is greyed out?
1. Use Windows Registry to enable the EFS
2. Use the command prompt to enable EFS
3. Check if the Encryption File System (EFS) service is running
4. Confirm if you are using an NTFS drive
If you’re using FAT32 as your file system, change it to NTFS. As encryption can only be done on the NTFS file system.
5. Run DISM and SFC scans
Doing this will repair all the corrupted files, and you can encrypt all your files and folders again.
Microsoft introduced the Encryption File System (EFS) with the launch of Windows 10, allowing you toencrypt your files and foldersfrom being accessed by others.
But, since it isn’t available in the Home edition, you may opt for a third-party tool to encrypt your files and folders, such asFolder lock.
Also, you may come across a situation whereDevice Encryption is missing in Windows 11, but enabling TPM and Secure Boot should fix things. We also have a great guide on what to do ifSecure Boot is grayed out on Windows 11, so don’t miss it.
Don’t forget to leave a comment in the section below and tell us whether you have thought of any more solutions for the Encrypt contents to secure data greyed out in Windows 11 issue. Thanks for reading!
More about the topics:file encryption,Windows 11
Abdul Moiz
Abdul Moiz loves technology, fashion, photography, and business.
His first love is technology and he loves talking about it. How does he chill? You are most likely to catch him traveling or watching tech videos.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Abdul Moiz
