Problem importing .PFX file

[patelsagar]

Hello guys, I am in a trouble, hoping for some help.

I had encrypted my important folder on Windows 7 and the type of file that was exported was .PFX
Then after due to a reason (it's a long story), I reinstalled windows 7 on partition containing old windows 7.

Now, I can't access my encrypted files. I understand that this is due to loss of old profile under which I encrypted my files. But I have got that .PFX file with me (I had to use a recovery tool). I know the SID of old profile. I don't have old profile folder though.

I just hope that it's possible to decrypt files when I have got .pfx file and SID of corresponding profile under which I encrypted files. When I double click on that .pfx file it says it can't recognize the file type (or something like that). I can't import it either. Please help me

Note: Even after changing permissions, taking ownership etc etc, I can't even copy those files! I can't even upload them anywhere, they are stuck there permanently (access denied, always).

 

[Irene]

Is there anything here which helps? : PFX File Extension - Open .PFX files

 

[patelsagar]

Is there anything here which helps? : PFX File Extension - Open .PFX files

Nope.

I should also mention that, when I try to import that particular certificate, it shows this error: "The file type is not recognizable. Select another file." The file for sure is a .pfx file, no doubt about that.

 

[patelsagar]

I found a similar problem and its solution here: POST RECOVERY ( Repair install) FILE ACCESS PROBLEMS AE ATTRIBUTES in Folder.____

Too bad, it seems I have a corrupted key. May be recovery was too late

I would like to repeat what the guy caught in problem says in that thread:

NEVER encrypt your files. If your system crashes, and you lose your exported key, you are doomed.
Microsoft should make it's Windows OS smart enough to detect such keys lying on HDD before overwriting current OS. It should clearly warn that encrypted files will be lost forever if you continue with re-installation.

 

[Irene]

This is probably putting the cart before the horse - metaphorically speaking - but you or someone looking to perform a similar task might find it interesting, if not useful:
How to Import a Server Certificate for Use in Internet Information Services 5.0