Device theft cases are rising, with the USA reporting over 2 million laptops and 4 million phone theft incidents annually. Your device is sensitive and losing it to theft means anyone can access your data. You might not lose your device to theft but someone could access your information without permission.

Disk encryption is done to limit the possibility of data access due to unauthorized access. Device owners mainly use file-level or full disk encryption. Encryption solutions range from VeraCrypt to 7-Zip, BitLocker, and DiskCryptor.

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Why device owners require disk encryption

The goal of disk encryption is to deny anyone who accesses your data the ability to read it. Once encrypted, only someone with your decryption password can read your information. It changes how your information appears on your screen, making it look distorted or corrupted. This is one of the advanced methods of protecting your information from illegal access.

Some hackers can use specialized software to decrypt your information, but an additional protection layer can prevent this. MacBooks contain several data protection solutions such as FileVault.  But what is FileVault on a Mac? FileVault disk encryption is a built-in protection layer that prevents people from decrypting your data. Understanding what is FileVault disk encryption is important to help you take advantage of it and boost your safety. Once activated, the vault isolates information and secures it in a controlled environment.

Common types of disk encryption

People commonly use 2 types of disk encryption although there are several more options. The most popular methods are file-level and full disk. Other methods include hybrid, hardware-based, cloud-based, and transparent. The protection you choose depends on the data encryption software in use.

File-level Encryption

File-level encryption protects individual files and folders in your device. You decide which files and folders you want to encrypt depending on their content. You can leave the other parts of the disk unprotected if their content does not demand top-notch safety. You may target your photo, contacts, and personal data files.

Full-disk encryption

This method aims to protect every file and folder on your disk regardless of content. FDE prevents access and reading of your data after unauthorized access. This security method also targets to protect the operating system and applications. It may slow your device speed and require choosing the strongest password.

Hybrid encryption

This method requires users to create a public and private encryption key to protect data. It is applied in scenarios where protecting large data volumes is necessary.  People prefer this method because it does not affect data processing speed. It is easy to scale and works on multiple security environments.

Hardware-based encryption

Hardware encryption lets users encrypt data within the hardware by connecting the encryption software to the hard disk. Windows disk encryption for example automatically encrypts data with BitLocker. It protects the entire hardware including the operating system and apps.

Transparent encryption

Transparent encryption is used to encrypt big data stored in databases such as Azure SQL servers. It encrypts data at rest and does not require any action to encrypt or decrypt information. It is an advanced method that ensures streamlined and compliant operations.

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Popular encryption solutions

Different types of software allow encryption at different levels depending on their security features. For instance, tools for endpoint encryption protect data stored on endpoints. This may include devices such as computers and smartphones. Examples of encryption solutions include the following: 

●      AxCrypt. AxCrypt is a subscription-based software perfect for users who want a simple-to-use solution. It allows safe sharing, deletion, and protection of multiple operating systems. 

●      VeraCrypt. VeraCrypt is good for small and medium enterprises because it protects data from brute-force attacks. It automatically generates keys and protects them from theft. 

●      7-Zip. 7-Zip protects files and folders locally through AES-256 encryption. It is an open-source multi-OS software that supports many file formats. 

●      ESET Endpoint Encryption. This solution is based on centralized key management and has robust protection features. 

●      BitLocker. BitLocker is built for Windows to implement full disk encryption. 

Deciding the encryption method to use 

The method you use to protect your data from being read by unauthorized people depends on your goals. You might aim to protect a few files only or the entire hard drive. You might have big data to protect, requiring an advanced solution.

Choose a solution based on your immediate and scaling needs. Ensure the software can work on different operating systems and devices. Consider cost, complexity, and amount of time required to learn. Understand the level of user training required and the support the developer provides.

Conclusion

Data is used daily by organizations and individuals and protecting it is important. Your device can fall into the wrong hands which can easily compromise your data. Encryption makes it harder for people to access and read your information unless they get your password. Different types of software help users do file, full drive, hybrid, or transparent encryption. Choose your preferred method depending on the protection you want, the amount of data, and the features.