In today’s digital-first environment, data security and privacy are major concerns. With the number of data breaches and cyberattacks going up, keeping your private information safe is more important than ever.
Your company should use a reliable data encryption tool to safeguard sensitive data. This tool scrambles data into a ciphertext using a complex algorithm that is only readable with an encryption key. Let’s go over some additional information to help you choose the best file encryption program for your company.
When it comes to protecting the security of your sensitive data, file protection programs can make the difference between true security and a potential breach. Choosing file security software that both satisfies your security requirements and is easy to use is what most businesses are looking for.
We’ve created the below guide to help you use the MECE model to choose the best file encryption software for your business and to answer some of the most common questions about file security.
MECE Framework for Choosing File Encryption Software
The MECE framework is a method for solving problems that involves breaking a problem into categories that don’t overlap and cover every aspect of the problem as a whole. In this case, the MECE framework will help you figure out your security, device, and usage needs so you can choose the best file encryption software tool for you.
1. What are your security needs?
Finding out what information you need to protect and how secure you want it to be is the first step in selecting the best file encryption software. Business users may need to encrypt financial records, customer information, and sensitive data. On the other hand, if you’re an individual, you may want to encrypt your personal files, essential documents, photos, and videos.
Now that you have decided on the types of information you may need to protect, you also need to think about how secure it needs to be. For example, if you’re dealing with highly sensitive information, you may opt for encryption software to secure individual files that uses a strong encryption algorithm such as AES-256.
Anchor is an excellent choice when you need military-grade encryption. It offers a high level of security because it uses endpoint encryption, access controls, and forensic logging to keep a record of all movement and access. In addition, Anchor is a true zero-trust platform that never assumes trust and always verifies that access rules are met before providing permission.
In addition, it is important to remember that no system is completely invulnerable, so it is important to choose reputable encryption software that uses strong encryption algorithms.
2. What are your device and platform needs?
Step two in choosing the best file encryption software is to think about your platform and device needs. Decide which operating system you need to work with, whether you need to support more than one device, and whether you need to connect to cloud storage. Additionally, if you need to use cloud storage services such as Egnyte or Dropbox, you’ll want to choose a file encryption tool that integrates with these services.
3. What are your usage needs?
The last step in choosing the right file encryption software is to think about what the program will be used for. Do you need something that is simple to use and user-friendly, or is cost the deciding factor? For instance, if you’re looking for a data security solution that’s basic and straightforward to operate, you might prefer something turnkey that offers the features you care about.
On the other hand, if you want a more advanced security solution with features such as key management, secure file sharing, and AES 256-bit encryption, you should choose one that is a step above the basics.
While some basic types of privacy tools are free, the more complex encryption solutions offer additional support depending on the encryption process they use.
Encryption FAQs:
What is file encryption software?
By encrypting files in a format that can only be read with a special key, file encryption software helps safeguard sensitive data. Your sensitive information is given an additional layer of security, shielded from hacker attacks, data breaches, and unauthorized access.
How does file encryption work?
Data is encrypted using a mathematical algorithm in file encryption. The original data is transformed using this algorithm into ciphertext that can only be decoded using an encryption key. The encrypted data can then be stored on your device, in secure storage on the cloud, or sent via mobile device to an intended recipient.
What types of information are usually encrypted?
File encryption software can be used to encrypt many types of data, including personal information, CAD files, financial records, customer information, and sensitive data. In addition, the DOD requires all contractors to follow CMMC compliance rules that are dependent on strong file encryption to be eligible for contracts. Almost all types of information can be encrypted with the right tools.
What are some of the best file encryption tools available?
There are many file encryption software options out there including Anchor, BitLocker, VeraCrypt, AxCrypt, and 7-Zip. Depending on your needed level of security, device, and usage needs choose one that makes the most sense.
Of course, we’re confident that Anchor offers the best encryption technology to protect your sensitive files. Anchor utilizes Advanced Encryption Standard (AES 256-bit encryption), one of the strongest forms of symmetric encryption. AES 256-bit is considered to be military-grade encryption. In addition, Anchor does not use full disk encryption, but rather uses file-level technology to verify access rules in real time.
Are there any free encryption options, or are they all paid?
Some file encryption solutions offer a freemium model, while others charge a fee. The cost and pricing model of each encryption program will depend on the features they offer.
Can file encryption software be hacked?
Although most file encryption programs provide a strong layer of security, no system is completely hack-proof. However, if the tool uses a strong encryption process, such as AES-256, it can significantly reduce the risk of hacking. You should also choose a reputable encryption software solution that has been independently tested and validated to provide enterprise-grade encryption.
Here’s a quick recap of the key features to look for in file encryption software
When selecting file encryption software, keep the following things in mind:
Encryption algorithm: Look for an encryption program that uses the AES-256 algorithm to protect your data with military-grade security.
User-Friendly Interface: An interface that is easy to use makes it easier to access and manage your encrypted data. In addition, options that provide multi-factor access control should be at the top of the list.
Cross-device compatibility: If you use more than one device, look for encryption software that works regardless of device type so that you can access your encrypted files from any device without issues.
Automatic backup: Think about using encryption software that backs up your encrypted files automatically. This gives you an extra layer of protection in case your data gets lost or damaged.
Customer Support: When looking for file protection software, make sure to opt for one that has solid customer support via email, phone, or live chat, so that if you ever need help, you can get it quickly and easily.
Cost: Since file security software costs can vary greatly, it’s important to research price options to choose the one that best fits your budget. Software to encrypt data can sometimes be bought or downloaded for free (with fewer features).
Independent testing: Choose software that has been tested and certified by a third party to show that it is reliable.
With so many encryption tools on the market, it’s important to do your due diligence. We hope that the above recap helps you make the right decision.
Not convinced yet? Tekpon, a popular SAAS ratings platform, recently rated Anchor as one of the best cloud security software companies.
The Final Word
Choosing the right file encryption software is important to your business’s overall data policy. By researching types of file encryption, levels of encryption, and complicated algorithms, you can choose what makes the most sense for your needs.
Anchor is a trusted file encryption program that uses the AES-256 algorithm to protect files while they are at rest, in transit, or being used. Our encryption utility is often used to add an additional layer of protection before uploading sensitive files to cloud storage services. Find out more about the Anchor file security solution by requesting a demo.
