Configuring Windows Server 2019 EFS and BitLocker Encryption
Data breaches cost organisations millions—and encryption is your first line of defence. This course teaches you to configure EFS and BitLocker on Windows Server 2019, the two encryption technologies enterprises rely on to protect sensitive data at rest. You’ll move from theory to hands-on configuration in under 2.5 hours.
AIU.ac Verdict: Ideal for Windows Server administrators and security professionals who need practical encryption skills immediately. The course is laser-focused on configuration rather than theory, though it assumes baseline Windows Server familiarity—beginners may need prerequisite knowledge first.
What This Course Covers
You’ll start with Encrypting File System (EFS) fundamentals, then configure file-level encryption, manage recovery agents, and troubleshoot common issues. The second half covers BitLocker Drive Encryption: pre-requisites, TPM setup, recovery key management, and deployment across multiple servers. Both modules include real-world scenarios where encryption protects against data theft and regulatory violations.
The practical focus means you’ll configure these technologies in sandbox environments, not just watch demonstrations. You’ll understand when to use EFS (file-level, flexible) versus BitLocker (volume-level, enterprise-grade), and how to integrate both into a layered security strategy. By the end, you’ll be confident deploying encryption that actually meets compliance requirements.
Who Is This Course For?
Ideal for:
- Windows Server administrators: Need hands-on encryption configuration skills for production environments and compliance audits.
- Security professionals and engineers: Require practical knowledge of enterprise encryption technologies to design and implement data protection strategies.
- IT professionals pursuing security certifications: Building knowledge for Microsoft Security Engineer or similar credentials where encryption is a core competency.
May not suit:
- Complete Windows beginners: Course assumes comfort with Windows Server administration; you’ll struggle without foundational knowledge.
- Linux or cloud-only specialists: Content is Windows Server–specific; limited transferable value if your infrastructure doesn’t use Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Configuring Windows Server 2019 EFS and BitLocker Encryption take?
The course is 2 hours 20 minutes of video content. Most professionals complete it in one sitting or across two focused sessions, plus time for hands-on lab practice.
Do I need Windows Server 2019 installed to complete this course?
No. Pluralsight provides sandbox environments and labs, so you can practise configuration without setting up your own infrastructure. However, hands-on experience on a test server is valuable for retention.
Will this course help me pass Microsoft certification exams?
Yes—encryption configuration is covered in Microsoft Security Engineer (AZ-500) and Windows Server Administrator exams. This course provides practical depth beyond exam objectives, which strengthens both knowledge and exam performance.
What’s the difference between EFS and BitLocker, and when should I use each?
EFS encrypts individual files and folders, offering flexibility for selective protection. BitLocker encrypts entire volumes, providing stronger enterprise-grade protection. The course teaches you to evaluate both and layer them for maximum security.
Course by Daniel Lachance on Pluralsight. Duration: 2h 20m. Last verified by AIU.ac: March 2026.
