Encrypt and Decrypt Windows: TrueCrypt Techniques

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In this conclusion to a three-part article series on using TrueCrypt to encrypt your Windows 7 operating system, I'll show you how to change the boot loader settings, and how to decrypt Windows, should you decide you no longer need the encryption to protect your sensitive information. Changing the boot loader should be done with caution, as you will not see some of the warnings you might expect under normal circumstances.

Changing Boot Loader Settings

By default, the TrueCrypt boot loader explicitly tells the user the system is protected with TrueCrypt. If you recall the boot loader screen from the previous step, you will notice the text "TrueCrypt Boot Loader 6.3a" at the top-left of the screen. TrueCrypt has built-in functionality to change the behavior of the boot loader, which allows you to hide all text completely.

From the TrueCrypt main window, right-click your "System drive" in the volume list, then select "Settings" from the menu.

This will open the "System Encrypting Settings" window. We are going to focus on the "Boot Loader Screen Options" section. At the very top of the window, you will see a checkbox followed by the text, "Do not show any texts in the pre-boot authentication screen (except the below custom message)." If you check this box, ALL text from the boot loader will be hidden. The only visible object on the screen will be a stationary, blinking cursor. In fact, this cursor does not move, even if you press any letters on the keyboard. Also, if you enter an incorrect password, no warning messages will be displayed. After you have checked the checkbox, click the "OK" button and restart your computer.

TrueCrypt will warn you about the functionality of this feature. Since I just described that to you, simply click the "Yes" button.

Once your computer restarts, the only visible object on the screen will be the stationary, blinking cursor. Once you enter the correct password, Windows should load normally.

Next: Adding Some Text >>
 

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