How do I encrypt data with Windows 10?

I found the instructions for this and they are pretty straight forward, the only problem is when I get to the last step, to "Encrypt contents to secure data," it is grayed out and I can't check it. Could someone please help me with this?

Microsoft developers decided not to change the way you encrypt your data in Windows 10 from how it was done in previous versions of Windows, but it won’t do any harm if we remind ourselves of how to encrypt files and folders in Windows

Method 1 – Use Encrypted File Service

Probably the fastest way to encrypt your files and folders in Windows 10 (and any other version of Windows since XP) is to use its built in encryption tool, called EFS (Encrypted File Service).
This is a very simple encryption tool, and you’ll make your files protected in a couple of minutes, with just a couple of clicks.
But before we show you how to encrypt your files with EFS, we have to warn you that you’ll be able to access the encrypted file only with the login of the account you encrypted the file with. Other user accounts (if with administrative permissions) won’t be able to access it.
So, make sure to remember or write down the password somewhere, or your file will stay locked forever.


Now we can get to work. Here’s exactly what you need to do to encrypt your files with Encrypted File Service:

1. Right-click on the file/folder you want to encrypt and go to Properties
2. On the General tab, click the Advanced button
3. Under Compress and encrypt attributes section, click on Encrypt content to secure data
4. Click OK and close Properties window
5. Apply changes to the folder, subfolders, and files when prompted

That’s that, your folder is now encrypted and its text is shown in green color.
All subfolders and files of the encrypted folder are encrypted as well, but if you want to change that, repeat the process above, and choose “Apply changes to this folder only” instead of “Apply changes to this folder, subfolders, and files.”
How to Backup Your Encryption Key

Just in case, you should back up your encryption key on the other device, in case you forget it. Windows knows that, and it will offer you an option to backup your encryption key right after you create it. To back up your encryption key, do the following:

1. Click on Back up your encryption key popup, when prompted
2. Choose Backup Now
3. Follow the instructions from the wizard
4. Now, enter and re-enter your password
5. Choose a place to which you’ll save your certificate and give a name to your encryption backup file
6. Click Next, and then Finish and your backup is done

Method 2 – Encrypt Your Files Using a Dedicated Encryption Tool (recommended)


If you think that Windows‘ own encryption tool isn’t good enough for your files, you can try with some third-party encryption software. Actually, a right third-party tool is even better choice than EFS, because it offers more options, so you’ll be able to keep your files as safe as possible.
There are a lot of free encrypting tools out there, but in my opinion, the best way is to get a premium software. It has much more features and it is prioritized when it needs support from developers.

Also, if the software has a trial version you can download the encryption tool for free, use it to make your files secure, and explore all of its encrypting options.
Here is one that we’ve been using recently and we believe that it can assist you as well in your routine work. You can keep your personal information, documents, and other similar sensitive stuff on your computer with no worries that they could get compromised.
With this high-grade encryption tool will never be stressed about data theft by malicious behavior and privacy leaks. Here are the exclusive list of features this tool has to offer:

• Lock folders on the internal hard drive, flash drive, external USB drive, thumb drive, memory card, pen drive, and network drive.
• Locking LAN Shared Folder
• Encrypt files, folders
• Portable Encryption
• Hide files folders and drives
• File Shredder/Disk Wiper
• Make files folders and drives read-only
• Password protect files folders and drives
• Self-protection Mode

Method 3 – Encrypt Your Files Using Microsoft Office

Probably the most common type of files you would encrypt is some Office document.
Luckily every ‘part’ of Microsoft Office has its own tool which you can use to keep your files encrypted and safe.
Here’s what you need to do to encrypt your Office files with Office‘s own encryption tool:

1. Open the Office file you want to encrypt with a proper Office application
2. Go to File Tab
3. Under Info, click on Protect the document
4. Choose Encrypt with password
5. Enter your password and press Enter, and then, re-enter your password
6. Click OK

Your Office document is now encrypted, and you’ll have to enter a password you set before to access it.
I think this is all you need to know about the encryption of your files and folders in Windows 10.
As you can see, there are a couple of methods to keep your files safe, so it’s completely up to you which one you’ll use.

I want to sincerely thank everyone for all of the excellent answers and the time put into giving them. I have decided after seeing all that is entailed that I don't want to monkey with it. I'll probably end up causing myself grief. Thanks again!