Do you not have encryption because the file system you are using is FAT32 rather than NTFS? You can convert FAT32 to NTFS through the command prompt (convert C: /fs:ntfs if memory serves). This will allow you toi use encryptiona and compression (but not at the same time). Encryption will encrypt data store on your hard drive so only you (or anyone using your profile or anyone you have nominated as having the a recovery agent certificate) will be able to view it. Encrypting e-mails is another thing which has to do with you encrypting the data using an algorhythm that the recipient is aware of and is able to decrypt (ie has the relevant certificate). Otherwise all they will see is gibberish.