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diff --git a/manual/basic/encrypt-decrypt-file.md b/manual/basic/encrypt-decrypt-file.md new file mode 100644 index 00000000..77e66194 --- /dev/null +++ b/manual/basic/encrypt-decrypt-file.md @@ -0,0 +1,66 @@ +# Encrypt & Sign File + +GpgFrontend offers a fast and convenient method for working with files. The +encryption and decryption process for files is nearly identical to that of text, +with the exception that file operations involve binary input and output. + +## File Extension Introduction + +For ciphertext in ASCII format, the file extension is typically "asc" and these +files can be opened with a text editor. On the other hand, if the ciphertext is +in binary format, the file extension will be "gpg". Binary ciphertext files are +generally smaller than ASCII format. + +Before version 2.0.4, GpgFrontend generated ciphertext files exclusively in +ASCII format. However, beginning with version 2.0.4, GpgFrontend now generates +ciphertext files in binary format by default. This setting can be adjusted in +the program's settings. + + + +## File Browser + +From the top menu's "File" option, you can access the file browser by pressing +Ctrl/Command + B. After choosing target directory at system navigator, you +can then use the file browser tab to do some operations on files. By using the +file browser, you can navigate to your working directory and right-click on the +file you wish to work with. This will open a pop-up menu, where you can select +the operation you want to perform on the file. + + + +Located at the top of the file tab are two control buttons. The button on the +left allows you to navigate up one level in the directory hierarchy, while the +button on the right refreshes the input box on the left with the corresponding +path. + +On the far right of the file tab, there is a button with useful options that you +can select to show system files or hidden files. + + + +### Encrypt & Sign + +GpgFrontend recommends using the encryption and signature functions in this +method, so that the recipient can verify that the ciphertext originates from +you. You can select one or more recipients' public keys as well as your own +private key to complete this operation. + +When the operation is complete, a file with the ".gpg" extension is generated. +This file contains both encrypted content and signed content. + + + +### Decrypt & Verify + +When decrypting this ciphertext, it undergoes verification, which enhances +security. Additionally, you can perform a "Only Verify" operation which verifies +the content without decrypting it. To use this operation, you must select a file +with a ".gpg" or ".asc" extension, which contains the ciphertext and signature +content. + +To encourage users to verify whether the ciphertext is signed or not when +decrypting, Gpg Frontend does not provide a separate decryption operation for +this. + + |