Hardware-based encryption for your USB Drive

How do you go about storing important files? A special folder in the directory of your hard drive? The prehistoric floppy disk? Perhaps a writable CD or DVD? What measures do you take to protect these files? Do you lock them in a filing cabinet? Store them on a portable 8-gig thumb drive?

While all of these are decent options for protecting the data from a system crash, it may not be enough to keep it from intrusive eyes. In fact, if you are not using any form of disk encryption, your information may be at the serious risk of a security breach.

As hackers continue their quest to access unauthorized data, it is critical to make sure you take the appropriate measures to protect your information. Data you view as worthless and disposable could be a treasure to the savvy intruder.

Encrypted USB Technology

If you’re serious about drive encryption, the new technology employed in USB security may be of interest. A new level of protection has been applied to USB flash drives, one equipped with the power of hardware-based encryption. Just like your basic removable storage medium, these devices are small, can be conveniently stored, and work quickly. The units operate on a sophisticated encryption chip, securing passwords with high-grade block ciphers to defend against outside attacks. Many of these encrypted USB drives implement a double layer of 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) protection, a recommended standard by the United States government.

The built-in AES cipher automatically encrypts all data stored on the drive and then decrypts it when rightfully accessed. In contrast to software-based technologies, hardware-based file encryption does not store keys on a computer’s memory. This makes the system more resistant to common exploits, such as denial-of-service attacks, while optimizing computer performance.

This type of device may also be combined with software-based technologies, providing additional protection against physical hacking attempts. USB encryption software enables the units to establish internet connections where users travel through secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) tunnels and communicate over encrypted channels. This level of data encryption keeps you safe from internet threats, such as spyware, pharming, and phishing scams.

Staying Safe with USB Encryption

Consumers are urged to become more aware of the dangers related to storing confidential data on computer hard drives. With numerous intruders on the prowl, even what seems to be the most irrelevant information cannot be overlooked. Those looking to discard or reuse a computer are recommended to overwrite or delete the information it contains with special software. This could end up being a lengthy, costly proposition when considering the fact that every accessible data block and multiple hard drives may have to be combed.

On a positive note, the new series of flash drives offer a greater level of file encryption by implementing the best in USB security. Many of the drives are water-resistant and designed in durable metal enclosing that makes them nearly indestructible. These products are affordable with many features well suited for personal users, public institutions and private corporations.