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Tech Tips / Windows XP / Security

How to export your certificate with the private key

When you encrypt your first file or folder, the operating system will automatically create a certificate and a private key for you.

Because they are essential for file recovery, you should always export them. Follow these steps to export your certificate with the private key:

1. Type mmc.exe in the Run box.
2. Select Add/Remove Snap-in on the File menu.
3. Click Add.
4. Select Certificates; click Add, and then Close.
5. Click OK.
6. Expand the Personal folder and select Certificates. You should see your certificate in this folder.
7. Right-click the certificate, select All Tasks, and then select Export. The Certificate Export Wizard will appear.
8. Select Yes to export the private key.
9. Select Delete The Private Key If The Export Is Successful if you want to delete the private key on this computer after successfully exporting it. If you do this, you will have to import the private key again to see the contents of your encrypted files on this computer.
10. Click Next.
11. Type a password for the certificate and click Next.
12. Type the path to the file that will hold the certificate and click Next.
13. Click Finish.

Be sure to save the certificate in a safe place.