# End to end encryption by default By default, Element will create encrypted DM rooms if the user you are chatting with has keys uploaded on their account. For private room creation, Element will default to encryption on but give you the choice to opt-out. ## Disabling encryption by default Set the following on your homeserver's `/.well-known/matrix/client` config: ```json { "im.vector.e2ee": { "default": false } } ``` # Compatibility The settings above were first proposed under a `im.vector.riot.e2ee` key, which is now deprecated. Element will check for either key, preferring `im.vector.e2ee` if both exist.