Does Windows 7 Encrypting File System (EFS) factor in hardware?

Does anyone know if Windows 7 (Pro) Encrypting File System (EFS) factors in computer hardware?

Not bitlocker, just the standard EFS (right click, properties, advanced, encrypt contents to secure data).

I put off backing up my encryption key & my motherboard died on me. I sent it for repair and they sent it back broken (ASUS). Since it already went for repair once, they've offered me the option of trying to have it repaired again, or swapping it for another (same exact model) motherboard.

The mobo doesn't have a bitlocker chip, so I wasn't using it. But I know there are small differences in motherboards, even of the same model, like the MAC of the onboard LAN.

I was wondering if it would create problems recovering my encrypted files if I switched for a different board (same model), or if it's OK to do that. I'd like to be able to put the computer back together and boot it into the state it was before, having access to all my encrypted files.

What about CPUs (i.e. Phenom II)? Video cards? etc..? (out of curiosity)

Much thanks seven security experts

Does anyone have an idea, or even an educated guess as to how it works? I really need to make a decision, & need that encrypted data unlocked. Thanks again

The EFS encryption key is stored purely in Windows, nothing on the motherboard.

logicearth said:

The EFS encryption key is stored purely in Windows, nothing on the motherboard.

Click to expand...

Thanks,

So as long as I have the password to log in & windows isn't corrupted, then I should be able to decrypt the files?

i.e. Changing hardware (motherboard, CPU, etc..) doesn't lock the files again as some safety measure?

I just want to make sure I understand correctly, knowing this would make it an easy choice to swap my motherboard for a working one.

ty