Interactive mode
Use the interactive mode when you want Fractum to ask for one decision at a time. It runs the same encryption and decryption operations as the direct CLI, so it is useful for a first rehearsal or a recovery procedure where remembering every flag would add friction.
The menu offers three choices: encrypt a file, decrypt a file, or quit.
Encrypt through prompts
The encryption flow asks for:
- the input file;
- whether to reuse existing shares;
- the threshold and total number of shares for a new set, or the existing share folder;
- a label;
- whether to show verbose output;
- whether to include full metadata in the share files.
Choose full metadata only when the additional label, total share count, share-set ID, tool-integrity data, and Python version are useful to the recovery procedure. The default minimal format discloses less to a holder of one share.
Decrypt through prompts
The decryption flow asks for the encrypted file, then lets you choose one of two routes:
- provide a folder containing share files or ZIP archives; or
- enter share values manually when they are stored outside the filesystem.
For manual entry, have the correct threshold, share indices, and Base64 or hexadecimal share values ready. The direct recovery guide explains what happens after the prompts and how to handle common errors.
When to use direct commands instead
Use encryption and decryption commands for a written runbook, a repeatable rehearsal, or automation. The interactive mode reduces recall effort; it does not change the K-of-N recovery requirement or replace a documented custody plan.