TrueCrypt is free, open-source disk encryption software for Windows Vista/XP, Mac OS X and Linux. It provides on-the-fly encryption meaning data is automatically encrypted or decrypted immediately before being accessed or saved, and without any user intervention. Data stored on an encrypted volume can only be accessed (decrypted) with the correct password.
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 decrypted on the fly whilst being read or copied from an encrypted TrueCrypt volume. The main features of TrueCrypt are:
- 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.
- Allows data to be read and written as fast as if the drive was not encrypted.
- Hidden volume (steganography) and hidden operating system.
- Encryption algorithms: AES-256, Serpent, and Twofish. Mode of operation: XTS.
You can view a movie of how to use TrueCrypt here:
Note: TrueCrypt never saves any decrypted data to a disk – it only stores them temporarily in RAM (memory). Even when the volume is mounted, data stored in the volume is still encrypted. When you restart Windows or turn off your computer, the volume will be dismounted and files stored in it will be inaccessible (and encrypted). Even when power supply is suddenly interrupted (without proper system shut down), files stored in the volume are inaccessible (and encrypted). To make them accessible again, you have to mount the volume (and provide the correct password and/or keyfile).
Last updated: Monday, 08-Nov-2010 20:11:05 GMT©Lancaster University ISS Governance Computer User Agreement Privacy & Cookies Notice