# Encryption support

Synk can encrypt files as they are copied to the destination. This ensures that only those who know the password can access the data stored in the files, and is useful in cases where your backup destination is untrusted or insecure.

When using Synk's encryption support, you must specify the password you wish the files to be encrypted with. This password is securely stored in the Keychain; you must allow Synk to access that keychain entry in order for your files to be encrypted.

The encrypted files are stored with an extension of .synkencrypted. You can decrypt an encrypted file simply by dropping it onto the Synk icon. You will be prompted for the password to the file, and after entering the correct password, the file will be decrypted to its original name in usable form.

Do not forget the password to your files. Synk uses the commercial-strength AES encryption standard, and you will not be able to recover your files without your password.

For obvious reasons, you cannot boot from an encrypted copy of the operating system as the files are not directly readable. In general, you should limit your use of encryption to sensitive data, as it significantly slows down the copying process.