Question Windows 10 encryption

[Jim Rockford P.I.]

I have just now encrypted a folder using the built-in encryption tool. I do see the lock icon now, but when I open the folder I can read the contents. Now this is on my home computer, I am the only user, and it automatically logs me in without any password. Would this encryption be sufficient to keep it away from external hackers? I have no problem with people who use my computer to be able to see the contents but I don't want anybody externally accessing it.

By the way, there was no password required when I set up the encryption. Is this normal?

 

[Wolfshadw]

Here's a test you can try.

Create a new standard (non-admin) user and see if you can see and/or access the folder.

-Wolf sends

 

[Grobe]

The windows 10 encryption is (afaik) a combination on your user profile and the windows installation. This means the files should not be readable if either:

• Trying to read from another computer - or windows installation.
• another user logged in.

But - if you're logged in as your user and some back door letting somebody else see and control the computer, the encryption are pretty much useless.

What I do NOT know : In recent Windows version, the user profile are tied to an online account. Based on previous experience way back (in W2000/XP era) - I clearly remember that an encrypted file was unreadable if the OS was re-installed, even if the name+psw for the user was exactly the same.
If this rule applies today with online user account, I don't know.

 

[rgd1101]

and if the data is important. backup