Can’t Encrypt A Folder? Here’s What to Do

Take advantage of these expert-created solutions

2 min. read

Updated onOctober 17, 2024

updated onOctober 17, 2024

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File encryption is one of the best methods to protect your files, which is no secret. However, many users reported that the encrypt folder option is greyed out on their PCs.

The reason why your encrypt folder option is greyed out is most likely a wrong Windows version, a disabled encryption service or corrupt system files.

Follow the steps below to re-enable it:

How can I fix the encrypt folder option if it’s greyed out?

Make sure you use the Windows 11/10 Pro Version. The Home version doesn’t support folder encryption. If you do, but the option still isn’t working, follow the steps below:

1. Modify the registry

After making these changes, restart your PC.

2. Enable the Encrypting File System (EFS) service

File encryption relies on the Encrypting File System (EFS) service. So, you need to enable it and restart your PC.

3. Repair system files

4. Enable EFS with the fsutil command

Another option to enable the Encrypting File System (EFS) service is to run the fsutil command. This should make the encrypt folder option available again on your PC.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you solve the encrypt folder being greyed out problem in the comments below.

Can’t Encrypt A Folder? Here’s What to Do#

How can I fix the encrypt folder option if it’s greyed out?#

1. Modify the registry#

2. Enable the Encrypting File System (EFS) service#

3. Repair system files#

4. Enable EFS with the fsutil command#