Vista Home editions and EFS
According to an item I found on a MS support website, EFS File and Folder encryption is not fully (????) supported in Vista and 7 Home editions, then talks about Cipher.exe.My question is Why not fully supported? Will it ever be? Is there an add-on available from Microsoft free or to purchase which FULLY implements File and Folder encryption in Home editions of XP, Vista and Windows 7?
February 4th, 2010 2:33pm

It is by design. Encrypting File System (EFS) isn't supported in Home editions due to the Windows architecture and commercial reasons. Generally, EFS is mainly used by enterprise. EFS supports industry-standard encryption algorithms including Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA), elliptic curve cryptography (ECC), smart card–based encryption, and other features. If you want to fully use EFS, it is recommended to choose Windows Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate editions.BTW, there are some changes in EFS in Windows 7.Changes in EFSBest RegardsDale
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February 5th, 2010 11:04am

Thanks for the reply. Our problem is a little more fundamental. Many, many, users have occasion to touch sensitive work data on their home computers, but they are unable to justify the cost of a business computer and any of the Windows Professional/Business editions (bear in mind that in the UK, these versions are normally only offered on the more expensive business computer offerings, or are an expensive upgrade option). A reasonably priced add-on from Microsoft would be an option that employers could adopt for their employees who have a need to work at home occasionally.Best regards,Richard.
February 5th, 2010 1:17pm

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