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Data encryption is a method that can allow you to safeguard electronic information by preventing unauthorized access to files. Encryption software converts "plain text" data that can easily be read into encrypted data via complex mathematical operations and a unique key. Encryption keys work similarly to physical keys to doors or a locked filing cabinet. Without the key, gaining access to encrypted data is often extremely difficult. Most often encryption keys take the form of passphrases where only individuals who have the passphrase can unencrypt and view the data.

Access to encrypted data is dependent on your key (see above), making it possible that if you lose your key you may lose access to your data. It is very important to consider how you might securely back up and protect your encryption key when considering encryption.

Most often when a computing device is lost or stolen, the data on the device is unencrypted and therefore easy to access (even if the device is password protected). However, using encryption protects sensitive data and keeps it private. 

Another common use of encryption is in creating encrypted containers (more below) so that even if a computer is infected with malware there is an additional layer of protection that may thwart intruders from accessing confidential or sensitive data.

Full Disk Encryption is used to safeguard all data stored on a hard drive (including the operating system). 

File Level Encryption uses a single key or multiple keys to encrypt a single file or series of files only.

Container-Based Encryption provides encryption of a container file that internally contains other files that can be read (i.e. encrypted zip file).

Full Disk Encryption is used to safeguard all data stored on a hard drive (including the operating system). 

File Level Encryption uses a single key or multiple keys to encrypt a single file or series of files only.

Container-Based Encryption provides encryption of a container file that internally contains other files that can be read (i.e. encrypted zip file).

• Encrypting Android Devices
• Verify iOS Device Encryption
• Encrypting Windows PC Note: Enterprise + Ult. Editions Only
• Encrypting Windows 8 PC Note: Pro + Ent. Editions Only 
• Encrypting Mac Systems using File Vault

Your data encryption protection is only as secure as your encryption key. Use App State’s Tips for Creating a Secure Password. Also, consider using a password manager tool such as Keepass KeePass which securely stores passwords.