Langmeier Backup FAQ

Backing up a partition with Windows encryption enabled

A customer attempted to back up the system partition and encountered a total of 10,788 error messages stating, “Access to the file is blocked. Check the security settings.” This included files located in the following directory:

C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Crypto\RSA\MachineKeys

What went wrong? In fact, there were two key issues.

Windows disk encryption was enabled on the computer. This means that only files assigned to the current user or files that are explicitly shared are accessible. All files belonging to other users are blocked, as they are encrypted for those specific user accounts. To back up data from other users as well, you would need to provide the login credentials for each user’s folders within the backup task. However, this approach is highly impractical, as encrypted folders are often scattered across the disk and difficult to locate.

A much better and simpler solution is to create a disk image of the system partition. Backup solutions such as Langmeier Backup access data at a lower system level, bypassing the file-level restrictions imposed by Windows and allowing all files to be included in the backup.

Do Not Forget: Back Up the Encryption Key

It is crucial that you also back up the encryption key if Windows encryption is in use. The key must be exported as a PFX file and stored separately from the disk image. Without this key, you will not be able to access your encrypted files after restoring the backup. To ensure maximum security and data integrity, always save the encryption key in a separate location, independent of your hard disk image.

You can find detailed instructions on how to export the encryption key as a PFX file here (see the section titled “Key backup”).

about the author
Founder and CEO of Langmeier Software


I don't want to complicate anything. I don't want to develop the ultimate business software. I don't want to be listed in a top technology list. Because that's not what business applications are about. It's about making sure your data is seamlessly protected. And it's about making sure everything runs smoothly while you retain full control and can focus on growing your business. Simplicity and reliability are my guiding principles and inspire me every day.
 

Look it up further: Encryption, Back up Windows, Backup operating system, Backup, Data backup

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This article covers the topics:
The Windows encryption key
Do I need the hidden partition?
Cryptography Windows folder
Windows encryption