What is Disk Encryption?
Disk encryption is a cyber security technology that safeguards the data stored on your organisation’s devices. It transforms information on your hard disk drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs) into an unreadable format using encryption algorithms. This ensures that even if an unauthorised individual gains physical access to a device or removes the storage drive, they cannot access the confidential data without the decryption key.
How does disk encryption work?
Disk encryption solutions typically work by encrypting the entire disk volume or specific partitions before data is written. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Encryption keys: A unique encryption key is used to scramble the data on the disk. Only authorised users or systems possessing the decryption key can unlock and access the encrypted data.
- Encryption algorithms: Robust encryption algorithms like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) are employed to transform data into an unreadable ciphertext.
- Transparent encryption: Many modern disk encryption solutions operate transparently, encrypting and decrypting data on the fly without requiring any noticeable user intervention.
Benefits of disk encryption:
- Enhanced data security: Disk encryption significantly reduces the risk of data breaches by rendering stolen devices or storage drives useless without the decryption key.
- Improved regulatory compliance: Many regulations mandate data protection at rest, and disk encryption helps organisations meet these compliance requirements.
- Peace of mind for lost or stolen devices: In the event of a lost or stolen device, disk encryption ensures your sensitive data remains protected from unauthorised access.
- Improved device disposal security: When decommissioning devices, disk encryption safeguards any residual data that might be lingering on the storage drives.
Use cases with Microsoft Endpoint Manager:
- Securing laptops and desktops: Microsoft Endpoint Manager (formerly Microsoft Intune) can be used to centrally manage and deploy full-disk encryption solutions like BitLocker Drive Encryption on Windows devices.
- Protecting mobile devices: Disk encryption can also be implemented on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets managed by Microsoft Endpoint Manager, safeguarding corporate data even if the device is lost or stolen.
- Complying with data protection regulations: Disk encryption is a vital tool for organisations in industries with strict data protection regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
By implementing disk encryption with Microsoft Endpoint Manager, organisations can significantly enhance data security across their devices, ensuring sensitive information remains protected at all times.
