I understand that ESD's are supposed to be encrypted but why is it that all of the "install.esd" files I come across don't seem to be encrypted? I downloaded Windows 10 and Windows 8.1 using the MediaCreationTool's and both of the install.esd files that came in those ISO's show that they're not encrypted when used with ESD Decryptor. Plus they both work just fine with ESD <> WIM. So what install.esd files are actually encrypted?
The encrypted ESDs are stored in Microsoft servers. If you go through the 'legal'/intended process through Windows Update or Media Creation Tool, then they are decrypted after being downloaded. On the other hand, if you're able to sniff the download links then you'll get encrypted ones which need to decrypted manually. People prefer to get their hands on the encrypted ones, as they can be useful for version tracking, indexing & collection as the hash can be easily verified.
Ahhh that makes more sense now. I knew there had to be some kinda explanation. Thanks for the clarification guys.