what is the difference between DPAPI and file.encrypt

Question

what is the difference between DPAPI and file.encrypt (I/O)??

Answer 1

File.Encrypt calls EncryptFile that uses the Encrypting File System which in turn uses the DPAPI to protect the encryption keys. Basically, File.Encrypt is one of many potential encryption schemes that utilize the key management capabilities provided by Windows Data Protection (DPAPI) Architecture.