Can not open encrypted files (EFS) (Please help) reposted

[persiancity]

Hi there,

Please find My problem described here:


http://groups.google.com/group/comp.os.ms-windows.misc/browse_thread/...



At final, I find that I have to replace my Windows XP's account
Certificate with an old one, If I can assign a correct Certificate to
encrypted file then I guess that I am able to decrypt it, I have the
old cert. but:

I opened 'certmgr.msc' in MMC. In the "Personal\Certificates" and
"Trusted People\Certificates" I have TWO Certificates named 'ABC'. One
of them have the correct thumbprint (I am very happy that it exists!),
and another have a new thumbprint and as I see the 'Valid Date' started



from the what date I got the problem.


So, I export both Certificates into a safe place. Then I delete new
Certificate and re-login to the account, it create a new one with a new



new thumbprint instead of using the old Certificate that I guess (I am
sure) slove my problem.


I right-click on the new created Certificate icon and select:
All Tasks -> Renew Certificate with New Key


I am sure it's what I need but I got this message: "The wizard cannot
be started because it failed to contact the active directory."


The message title named "Certificate Renewal Wizard", I have not seen
it yet but I guess it'll let me to import old (CORRECT) certificate key



for new certificate. I am not sure that WinXP have Active Directory
installed, and can not find any option in Add/Remove too.


I need a way to renew an auto-created Certificate with an old one or
replace it for my account. Wizard didn't work to do it! :-|


Please tell me how I can replace/renew a Certificate in Windows XP.


Mehdi

 

[Guest]

In order to open encrypted files, you must have the original certificate that
was used to encrypt those files along with its private key. The certificate
alone is a .CER file; the certificate and key are a .PFX file. It's the .PFX
file that you need to import into your Personal certificates store. Once
that's done, you will be able to open your files.

Thanks.
Pat

 

[persiancity]

thanks,

By using 'EFS Data Recovery' I encrypted my files and problem sloved!


Mehdi