Did you lose your keys again? (week 5)

 

It goes without saying, that using proper security measures is the key to protecting yourself and your data when using a computer. The goal: Keeping your information out of unwanted hands! 

One way you can add extra protection is to use encryption. Which typically includes cypher keys, special software, algorithms, and sometimes a headache when you lose one of the keys. There are different types of cryptography: symmetric, asymmetric, and hash. It shouldn’t feel like an extra step to add or use encryption; it should be automatic.

But what if I told you that you can get the same benefits of encryption without having to keep track of multiple cypher keys? Yes, it’s possible with self-encrypting drives (SEDs).

With SEDs, the process happens automatically. With no need to manage cypher keys manually, and no unnecessary steps on the user’s part; as the encryption 'key' never moves out of the drive. Since this is hardware based, it encrypts the data as you type it and once you unlock it, it automatically decrypts when reading the contents. While the caveat to this is you do need to at least remember the pin or password. 

The best part, as long has the pin or password hasn't be compromised, it still offers protection if it’s misplaced or stolen. While this option can come with a higher upfront cost, it does offer convenience and is easy to use, without the worry of losing your cypher keys.

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