Security

TrueCrypt – on-the-fly encryption

TrueCrypt is a software application used for on-the-fly encryption (OTFE).

It can create a “file-hosted container” or write a partition which consists of an encrypted volume with its own file system, contained within a regular file, which can then be mounted as if it were a real disk.

Files can be copied to and from a mounted TrueCrypt volume just like they are copied to/from any normal disk (for example, by simple drag-and-drop operations). Files are automatically being decrypted on-the-fly (in memory/RAM) while they are being read or copied from an encrypted TrueCrypt volume.

Features include:

  • Automatic, real-time and transparent encryption.
  • Creates a virtual encrypted disk within a file and mounts it as a real disk.
  • Encrypts an entire partition or storage device such as USB flash drive or hard drive.
  • Encrypts a partition or drive where Windows is installed (pre-boot authentication).
  • Encryption is automatic, real-time (on-the-fly) and transparent.
  • Provides two levels of plausible deniability, in case an adversary forces you to reveal the password:
    • Hidden volume.
    • No TrueCrypt volume can be identified (volumes cannot be distinguished from random data).
  • Encryption algorithms: AES-256, Serpent, and Twofish. Mode of operation: XTS.

Website: truecrypt.sourceforge.net
Support:
Developer: TrueCrypt Foundation
License: TrueCrypt Collective License

Return to Security | Return to Disk Encryption


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