Elcomsoft EFS Data Recovery is designed to efficiently decrypt files that have been protected. The software performs comprehensive searches on hard drives to identify encrypted data, allowing users to regain access to files that may have been transferred to different domains or disks that have gone offline. It is capable of recovering data even in cases where entire system partitions are formatted, or when the encrypted disk has been moved to another computer, regardless of potential tampering with encryption keys.

A significant feature of this tool is the ability for designated Recovery Agents, typically administrators, to decrypt data encrypted by other users. This is particularly useful when users have misplaced their encryption certificate keys or if their accounts have been deleted, yet the encrypted files remain crucial. The software also allows for the assignment of multiple recovery agents to accommodate various organizational needs. Compatibility extends across multiple Windows operating systems, including versions as far back as Windows 98 to the more recent Windows 8.1.