Unable to access encrypted files after a clean Windows 11 install

Hi all,

I have 2 partitions on my laptop: drive C is the typical Windows structure, drive D has all my user directory items (documents, downloads, etc)

I performed a clean install of Windows 11 while keeping the contents of the D drive intact. I can access most files without any issues.

Problem: I forgot that I'd encrypted a folder with some financial files and now I cannot access (open, etc) the files in that folder.
I have BitLocker keys in my Microsoft Account but could not find any mention of how to use them. I even found a PFX file I'd created but can't recall the password for it.

Any ideas for me? Thank you in advance

If you're talking about folder or file-level encryption (as opposed to BitLocker, which encrypts the entire disk volume), you need the previous copy of Windows in order to export the Encrypting File System key.
This critical detail often gets overlooked when users re-install Windows.

When using EFS encryption, you're supposed to export the key from the old system. Keep it in a safe place, re-install Windows and import the key.
Short of this, you're not getting those files decrypted without backups. All you need is the original Windows drive.

Thanks.

I exported the key (still have it) but did not record/remember the password. I guess that renders the file useless.

Maybe you'll remember it after a while. No harm in keeping the old key and the files in case it happens.

No harm but it's been over a year and I've unsuccessfully tried my "quick passwords" that I use.

Plus there's urgency, unfortunately, so it's on to the EFS recovery software.

But thank you for your help