Ubuntu
ecryptfs-utils package

How to encrypt existing Ubuntu install

Asked by WJRobbins

I've recently installed Ubuntu 8.10 and am *very* new to the Linux OS. I came to Ubuntu after trying Fedora and a friend suggested Ubuntu instead. In Fedora I was given the option to encrypt the HDD prior to install. I did not see, and most likely just overlooked this option.

I was hoping to be able to encrypt after the fact using TrueCrypt, but it won't allow the system partition to be encrypted, and I can find no methods to do so.

Is it possible to encrypt the system HDD w/o a reinstallation?

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Ubuntu ecryptfs-utils Edit question
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Sam_ (and-sam) said : 		#1

Hi,
I don't know about changes of installation routine of 8.10, but you may have a look at this,
http://ubuntuforums.org/search.php?s=f2f7e27cba2f7bf1836c63d71df4d908&searchid=52007733
or
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/EncryptedPrivateDirectory

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WJRobbins (dangerwill) said : 		#2

Well the first link resolves to an unfound query.

The second link only encrypts the personal directory. I was hoping to be able to encrypt the entire drive.

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Sam_ (and-sam) said : 		#3

Hi,
you're correct, sorry, that link has an ID query, it worked instantly after I've posted it, but doesn't now anymore.
However, if you search in ubuntuforums.org for TrueCrypt you'll find some posts about installation issue on 8.10.

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WJRobbins (dangerwill) said : 		#4

Great, thank you! I'll take a look-see.

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Launchpad Janitor (janitor) said : 		#5

This question was expired because it remained in the 'Open' state without activity for the last 15 days.

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WJRobbins (dangerwill) said : 		#6

I was able to re-install using the Alternate CD and this article: http://snipr.com/7qnbm

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WJRobbins (dangerwill) said : 		#7

I was able to re-install using the Alternate CD and this article: http://snipr.com/7qnbm

This did require reinstalling though.