IT Security
Your Marauder’s Map To Decipher The World Of Endpoint Encryption Software
By TechDogs Editorial Team
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Overview
Imagine if somebody hands over a laptop filled with national security secrets and nuclear codes (that could destroy the world) to someone like Mr. Bean for protection. To nobody's surprise, he loses it? Surely all hell will break loose, especially if sensitive data falls into the wrong hands. Well, maybe not if it is in form of encrypted data or the laptop is secured with Endpoint Encryption Software. Thanks to the Endpoint Encryption solution, the only thing that Dr. Evil will see is a bunch of random ones, zeros, and other letters with no real meaning to them.
Who over here hasn't heard of the term malware or a reasonably common buzzword- cyberattacks? Did you know that a major chunk of all cyber claims stem from simple human errors such as losing a laptop, a phone, or a hard disk with sensitive data or clicking on the suspicious link that can breach the entire network (come on guys, our IT teams have sent us hundreds of emails asking us not to do precisely that)?
What Is An Endpoint Encryption Software?
In the purest form, Endpoint Encryption Software is a tool that secures your data by breaking it into several smaller elements that don't make sense without the exact key. Let us break down Endpoint Encryption into two words- 1. Endpoint and 2. Encryption, using the time-honored game of charades
The word encryption merely implies the process of converting data (could be an excel sheet, an email, and yes, even the secret notes you passed to your crush in the 6th grade) into a non-legible form, not readable by nosey third parties. Not so different from the Marauders Map in Harry Potter that could only be read by someone with the secret key, 'I solemnly swear I am up to no good.' (50 points to Gryffindor for the right answer).
Before we get lost in the magical world again, the word 'Endpoint' while not referencing the last full stop in this document, refers to all devices that you use for storing your data, including your desktop or Personal Computer, Laptop, Tablets, Mobile Phones, Company Servers, and any work-related device. When the two words are put together, we get Endpoint Encryption, which explains protecting the various endpoint devices from unauthorized access and data breach. There are couple of companies providing support through their encryption product or software like Microsoft Bitlocker, Dell Data Protection, Sophos safeguard, Symantec Endpoint Encryption, Eset Endpoint Encryption etc. which also follow regulatory compliance, cloud security as well - but it is also important to know where did it all began, types of it also what future beholds. So let us start the journey.
First Steps Of Endpoint Encryption To Where We
Are Now
One of the most well-known encryption uses in human history was during World War II when Cryptographer, Alan Turing, designed the Bombe Machine and cracked the code to the Enigma, which basically led the Allies to victory! Time and tide wait for none and neither does technology. Since WWII, our Endpoint Encryption Technology has grown from a basic decryption system to a super buff software that can battle high-end next-generation viruses, the stuff of IT nightmares.
Fun Fact: Did you know that ancient Spartans used a form of encryption in 600 BC? Yes, they did! They used a “machine” named scytale to send encrypted messages during battles, which consisted of a leather band covering a wooden rod. Once the band was unwrapped, the message could only be deciphered with the exact sized rod.
How Does Endpoint Encryption Software Work?
Endpoint Encryption Software allows you to manage file encryption across various connected endpoints centrally. The centrally managed disk encryption system ensures that your encrypt data is always safe, even if your device is stolen or lost. Anytime your data is added to an endpoint device, a precise policy is activated, which encrypts each endpoint device. Next, specific unlock keys are registered and backed up to the strong Encryption key to confirm the security. Once this happens, access to encrypted data or any unauthorized use will be stopped through the lockout policies that are login or time-based.
What Are The Different Types Of Endpoint
Encryption?
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Whole Drive Encryption: As the name suggests, this type of encryption secures the entire device (laptop, desktops, phones, etc.) and data on it. Still, it leaves the master boot record unencrypted. Encryption Software can easily access the encryption algorithm driver to unlock the system through authentication. In this, the whole drive is secured so that all the content on the device is protected and can only be accessed when the device is authenticated with the correct PIN.
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File, Folder and Removable Media (FFRM) Encryption: Again, stating the obvious, in FFRM, the Encryption Software provides protection to the selected files and folders on local drives, shared networks, or removable media devices like a USB drive or external hard disk. One of the best things about FFRM is that it can encrypt structured and unstructured data, which means it can protect your databases for data loss prevention, excel sheets, and .csv files and your company documents and images, including the embarrassing ones from your last company retreat. Unlike the Whole Drive Encryption, which decrypts data after the user is authenticated along with the mobile device, the file-based encryption policy that keeps the file decrypted till an authenticated user tries to access it. Thus, even if a file leaves the organization's network, it can't be decrypted by Tom, Dick, and Harry.
Apart from types, there are other encryption standards as well to assist the security solution. Disk Encryption Software standards are differentiated by the amount of data they can process at one time and the type of keys it requires for decryption. AES-256 and RSA are two types of conventional file encryption that consumers use regularly. Don't worry if you forgot those two words as soon as you read them, that's absolutely fine. The only takeaway is that security policy those which are on encrypted files that you use every day without even realizing it. Endpoint management encryption is the last layer of data security in an organization's arsenal and ensures no breach even if Dr. Evil does get his slimy hands on your portable devices and data.
Potential Future Of Endpoint Encryption Software
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Endpoint Encryption Software and how does it work?
Endpoint Encryption Software is a tool designed to secure data stored on various endpoint devices like laptops, desktops, smartphones, and servers. It accomplishes this by breaking down data into smaller elements and encrypting it, rendering it unreadable to unauthorized users. This encryption process ensures that even if a device is lost or stolen, the data remains protected. The software centrally manages file encryption across all connected endpoints, implementing precise policies that encrypt data whenever it's added to a device. Access to encrypted data is controlled through unlock keys registered and backed up with strong encryption keys, ensuring security against unauthorized use or access.
What is the potential future of Endpoint Encryption Software?
The future of Endpoint Encryption Software is likely to incorporate advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). In response to evolving cyber threats and the increasing complexity of security challenges, AI-based solutions are expected to become more prevalent. These advanced systems will enhance encryption standards and analyze intelligence to proactively identify and mitigate potential cyber threats before they can cause harm. This shift towards AI-driven Endpoint Encryption solutions reflects a broader trend in cybersecurity, where adaptive and predictive technologies are becoming essential components of defense strategies against emerging threats.
What does the future hold for Endpoint Encryption Software?
Endpoint security has evolved significantly, responding to the complex landscape of cyber threats. After events like the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017, security experts are turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for more advanced encryption solutions. AI-based Endpoint Encryption is expected to become the future standard, utilizing advanced encryption techniques and analyzing intelligence to proactively identify and mitigate potential cyber threats. This shift towards AI is aimed at enhancing cybersecurity measures and protecting organizations from emerging risks before they cause harm.
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