Windows users can make use of the Command Prompt utility tool to secure their files from unauthorized access. Let’s look at how you, too, can use command prompt to keep your files safe and secure.
What is Encryption?
Encryption, in short, keeps your data safe by obfuscating it, rendering it useless to unauthorized parties. Data is encrypted using specific algorithms which convert your data into ciphertext, safeguarding your data.
Encryption ensures that no unauthorized parties can access data that is not intended for them and is a fantastic option for protecting secure communications and preventing data breaches. On the other, hand, decryption is the reverse process that converts obfuscated ciphertext into plain text that humans can read.
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There are two main types of encryption: symmetric encryption, and asymmetric encryption. Asymmetric encryption uses a public key and a private key to encrypt and decrypt data, whereas symmetric encryption uses just one key.
If your data is encrypted, it will remain secure even if it is openly available. However, if a malicious person gets a hold of the decryption keys and manages to decode your data, your data will be at risk.
How to Encrypt Files Using the Command Prompt
Fortunately, we can encrypt files using Windows’ own Command Prompt and the cipher command. To do so, do the following:
Search for Command Prompt in the Start menu search bar, and then double click to launch it. You now need to change the working directory to the folder that contains your files. For example, if I wanted to encrypt files in the test folder that is located on my desktop, I would use the command cd Desktop\Test. Now type cipher /e. Your files will now be encrypted, and Windows should show you a confirmation message to tell you that it completed the task successfully.
If you’re using a Windows 10 Home license, you will not be able to encrypt files using the Command Prompt. The cipher utility is supported on Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise licenses.
How to Decrypt Files Using the Command Prompt
The steps to decrypt the encrypted files are pretty similar:
Launch Command Prompt through the Start menu Change the working directory to the required folder Decrypt files using the command cipher /d. Command Prompt will now decrypt your files and will display a confirmation message.
Encrypting Files on Windows 10
If you fear your data may be at risk, it is a good idea to encrypt your files and keep them secure. You can easily do this with data encryption software. Although not ideal, the cipher utility in the Windows Command Prompt is a decent method to encrypt your files securely.
