recovering efs encrypted files from laptop hd w/fried xp os.

[Lawton]

Upon starting my laptop, I got a message indicating that
windows config\system file was shot. I tried to repair xp
using the registry hive fix (through recovery console) to
no avail: the config\sys file could not be copied/was
beyond repair. No problem, I hooked the drive up to a
desktop and got many of the files off. Unfortunately,
most the ones I really need are encrypted with efs and I
couldn't transfer them. I have no recollection of backing
up the key files. Finally, I was able to install a new xp
pro o/s on the drive (in addition to, not over).
So...
Does anybody know how I can:
1) fix the ruined xp os (considering the recovery console
and other repair functions haven't worked),
2)"log-on" as myself to get permission to decrypt the files
(I'm guessing that simply setting up the same username and
password on the newly installed, functional o/s will not
do the trick, but rather will make a new encryption key,
and perhaps confuse the issue further)
or
3)decrypt the files by any other (inexpensive) means?
Much obliged for any suggestions

 

[Miha Pihler]

Hi Lawton,

your private keys are stored and protected in your old profile. If you can't
access it (logon to it) and if you don't have backup of your private keys,
then I guess you lost access to your files.

Mike

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

See this link:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/encrypt.htm
Step 3 may help if your original profile can be recovered.

 

[Guest]

Yeah, I guess that's what I'm trying to figure out: how to
logon to a profile in a damaged o/s. If I can repair
windows, or somehow logon for the purpose of decrypting
the file, I'm set. If not, I'm screwed. Is there a way
to prompt a logon screen for a damaged o/s on a slave
drive?