Nowadays it is more important than ever to have security and protection over all aspects of your PC. We’ve learned the hard way that even wealthy companies and government institutions are at risk for dishonest dealings and these people spend millions on data security each year. It may make you wonder what a regular person like you can do about protecting your files but the truth of the matter is that it is actually easier for someone like you and I to keep our data safe. Let’s suppose that we both transfer files and information to each other between our computers. Since we deal with far fewer files than a company like Sony, we can protect ourselves with just a little data encryption.
What is Data Encryption
To put it simply, encrypting data simply means to transform your computer’s text into “cyphertext”. This makes it so the file can only be read by using a key to “decrypt” to file. In other words, your precious text is scrambled as it travels past parties that might want to steal your information and it is unscrambled when a person with the right authorization chooses to do so.
How can I Encrypt my Data
There are several ways to encrypt your files in order to keep them safe from wandering eyes. If you’re on a web hosting service, the server likely already offers some manner of encryption. Make sure to acquaint yourself with the company and its safety policy. It may be possible that you’ll need third party server-to-server encryption. While you’re at it, client-to-server encryption may also be a viable option. Whereas server-to-server encryption will help create an overall safer network, client-to-server offers more personal safety.
But remember that you should also have data encryption software for your specific computer. Luckily, there have been some great advancements in encryption software for PCs like PC Lock and File Encryption XP. Naturally, you’ll want to make sure the software is compatible with your version of Windows but it is recommended that you purchase some kind of personal encryption software along with any kind of server-based encryption service.
Is Encryption Really that Important
Yes! If you have information or files that you deem to be valuable and important on your computer, it is highly recommended that you protect yourself with encryption of some kind. Far too many people these days get their vital information and property stolen online and this could have been avoided with proper safety protocol. As such, you should have some kind of encryption on your computer. Combine this kind of protection with your usual host of antivirus and malware services and you can be reasonably sure that you’ll be safe and sound from a wide array of harmful elements. Remember, the web can be very sticky and there are plenty of spiders out there. Safe surfing, friends!