What is File Encryption?
Encryption is a method of encoding information so that it’s unusable until decrypted – giving only authorized parties the keys to read or access that data. Encrypting files helps to prevent unauthorized access or tampering while data is in transit or at rest, depending on the method used.
Original methods of encryption included simply shifting letters through the alphabet or substituting letters and symbols, such as the Caesar Cipher or the Enigma machine. Today, file encryption is more sophisticated, more secure, and more difficult to crack, allowing encrypted document sharing and transfer to be a viable and secure option for organizations and individuals alike.
Essential File Encryption Terms
Algorithm
Decryption
Key
How Encryption has Evolved
Securing communications has been essential since writing was invented – even ancient Egyptians used symbol replacement to keep texts private. As technology progressed, encryption moved from simple codes, to specialized tools that would encrypt messages, to encryption software. And as computers became more powerful, encryption had to use increasingly long keys to avoid brute-force attacks.
How Does File Transfer Encryption Work?
Files are encrypted using complex algorithms that shuffle the contents and then are decrypted using a key provided by the originator of the message. The effectiveness of encryption technology is determined by:
- The strength and complexity of the algorithm
- The length of the key
- The appropriateness of the chosen encryption system
Information that has been encrypted remains confidential because it is rendered unreadable to anyone without the decryption key. Some encryption algorithms offer further file protection by ensuring that files are not altered or tampered with during transit.
How Are Files Encrypted?
There are a variety of encryption standards for encrypted document sharing. Some are used most frequently by specific industries, and others are most compatible with specific databases. Popular encryption standards include:
AS2, AS3, or AS4
Open PGP
ZIP with AES
PeSIT
HTTPS
What are Symmetric vs. Asymmetric Keys?
Which Files Can Be Encrypted?
Nearly all file types can be encrypted, including text files, emails, data files, directories, and disk partitions. Encryption software can also be deployed on a variety of platforms, both cloud-based and on-premises, including:
How to Choose File Encryption Software
When choosing which encryption standard to implement, consider the following:
- How sensitive is the data being exchanged?
- How will the data be transported (for example, FTP, email, HTTP)?
- Are large files being exchanged (which should be compressed)?
- Should the process of encrypted file sharing and transfer mean the files be encrypted (before transmission) or should the connection be encrypted?
- What encryption standards does your trading partner support?
The best encryption software for you hinges on you and your trading partners’ requirements. Some trading partners may dictate the encryption standards due to their industry or other requirement. There are a variety of scenarios that influence what type of protection is best for your organization: simple password protection, exchanging data, authentication, sending sensitive information, getting a receipt of delivery, and more.
No matter what you need when it comes to encryption, securing your file sharing is easier with GoAnywhere.
How Your Peers Are Using File Encryption Software
SES Encrypts and Audits Global Client Data
Industry: Business Services
Summary: Organizations worldwide depend on software escrow agreements to encrypt and automate the delivery of intellectual property. Learn how SES achieves this with GoAnywhere MFT.
Alliant Credit Union Enhances PCI DSS Compliance
Industry: Banking & Finance
Summary: As a member-owned credit union, Alliant Credit Union chose GoAnywhere Managed File Transfer for its MFT Agents, a module that helped enhance their PCI-compliant file transfers both in transit and at rest. Learn more about their unique use case.
Penn Foster Career School Manages Thousands of Daily File Transfers
Industry: Education
Summary: Discover how Penn Foster Career School leverages GoAnywhere MFT to address file transfer projects, manage 5,000 daily jobs, and secure confidential student data in compliance with strict policies.
Bristol Hospital Secures Sensitive Data
Industry: Healthcare
Summary: Learn how Bristol Hospital replaced its manual file transfer processes, secured its data, transformed its connectivity with trading partners, and improved overall with GoAnywhere MFT, an automated and cost-effective solution.
