Show Encrypted NTFS Files in Color: A Windows 11 Guide
Colored text for encrypted NTFS files in Windows 11 lets you spot secure data inside File Explorer at a glance. Encrypted File System (EFS) is the built-in Windows tool that scrambles your personal files so nobody else can open them, even if they steal your hard drive.
Turning on this display setting changes encrypted filenames to green automatically. You do not need to check file properties one by one to see if your data is safe.
Show encrypted NTFS files in color by opening File Explorer , clicking the three dots menu, selecting Options, then going to the View tab and checking “Show encrypted or compressed NTFS files in color.” This will color-code encrypted files, usually in green.
How to Turn On or Off Colored Encrypted or Compressed Files in 🪟 Windows 11
Complete the process with these steps:
- Open File Explorer by clicking the folder icon on the taskbar , or press
Windows key + Eon your keyboard. - Click the three dots (•••) on the top menu bar, then select Options from the dropdown. This opens the Folder Options window.
- In the Folder Options window, click the View tab at the top.
- Under Advanced settings, find and check the box that says “Show encrypted or compressed NTFS files in color.”
- Click OK to save your changes and close the window.
This reference screenshot displays the target checkbox:
File Explorer renders encrypted files in green and compressed files in blue, though specific system themes might alter these exact shades.
Reverting the view requires returning to the same menu and clearing the checkbox before clicking OK.
Summary
- Turning on this feature makes it easy to spot encrypted or compressed files by showing them in color.
- You can turn it off anytime if you prefer a plain, all-one-color look.
- This small setting helps you keep track of which files are more secure or compressed on your PC.
Configuration finishes here, leaving your Windows 11 environment fully equipped to display file states dynamically.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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