encryption/opening files/access is denied

I right-clicked on a file and opened "Properties", then I clicked "Advanced".
On the pane that opened I selected "Encrypt contents to secure data", I think
I then waited for the files to be encrypted. Along the line the files were
copied to another disk. Since I have re-installed "Windows Vista Ultimate".
How do I open these files?? When I try to "decrypt" them I get flashed with
an error saying "Access is Denied". I want to enter an encryption key, but
where do I put it? Other people do this. Thanks!

From Windows Help and Support (built into Vista)

"What to do if you lose your file encryption key

If you try to open an encrypted file and you get a message that access has
been denied, your encryption key might be corrupted or missing. In this
case, you must have a backup copy of your encryption key, or, if you're on a
domain, your network administrator must have a recovery certificate. You can
recover the encrypted files by restoring the encryption key with a backup
copy, or by using a recovery certificate. If you don't have a backup copy of
the key or a recovery certificate, you won't be able to access your files.

If you are connected to a domain, it is possible that a network
administrator can restore your key.

See also
Back up Encrypting File System (EFS) certificate
Create a recovery certificate for encrypted files
Recover encrypted files or folders
What is Encrypting File System? "

"Nate Sonkiss" wrote in message

> I right-clicked on a file and opened "Properties", then I clicked
> "Advanced".
> On the pane that opened I selected "Encrypt contents to secure data", I
> think
> I then waited for the files to be encrypted. Along the line the files were
> copied to another disk. Since I have re-installed "Windows Vista
> Ultimate".
> How do I open these files?? When I try to "decrypt" them I get flashed
> with
> an error saying "Access is Denied". I want to enter an encryption key, but
> where do I put it? Other people do this. Thanks!