Full disk encryption (FDE) is a security process that protects data by encrypting everything on a device’s storage drive and making it unreadable to unauthorized users. FDE automatically encrypts all content stored on a drive, including files, applications, and system files.
What does full disk encryption do?
FDE encrypts data on a device’s hard drive that’s used to also boot its operating system. Unauthorized parties will be unable to access files on this encrypted drive. Without the correct decryption key, malicious actors will be unable to read critical data even if a hard drive is physically removed or accessed remotely. This also means that if an IT team loses a decryption password, end-users could permanently lose access to encrypted data. Fortunately, there are ways to recover a Windows Bitlocker key.
Why is file disk encryption important?
-
Protects sensitive data
If a device is lost, FDE prevents data compromise. FDE helps reduce the risk of a data breach by preventing cybercriminals from being able to extract or read data from stolen and hacked devices. In addition, FDE can protect removable storage devices where data backups are stored.
-
Offers secure remote work
As more organizations adopt remote or hybrid work arrangements, they often carry sensitive data on portable devices. FDE adds an extra layer of protection to remote devices.
-
Regulatory compliance
In some industries, such as healthcare or finance, regulatory standards like HIPAA require businesses to encrypt sensitive data. FDE can help simplify the encryption process and make it easier for IT teams in charge of compliance management.
How do I know if I have full disk encryption?
Knowing whether your device uses FDE is essential in ensuring your data is secure. Here’s how you can check:
-
Full disk encryption for Windows devices
Microsoft offers native FDE software known as Windows BitLocker. Open the Search Bar, type BitLocker, and select the “Manage BitLocker” option which will show if FDE is enabled for your device.
-
Full disk encryption for macOS devices
Apple uses FDE through FileVault Disk Encryption. To check if your macOS device has FDE, navigate to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > FileVault.
-
Full disk encryption for Linux devices
For Linux devices, FDE can only be set up during the operating system’s initial installation. Linux uses the Linux Unified Key Setup (LUKS) to encrypt hard drives, SSDs, and other storage devices.
-
Full disk encryption for Android devices
Devices running on Android 5.0 have FDE enabled by default. Android 7.0 and later devices have transitioned to File-Based Encryption (FBE), which offers even finer control as each file has an individual encryption key needed to access it. You can check if you have FDE on Android by going to Settings > Security > Encryption and Credentials.
-
Full disk encryption for iOS and iPad devices
Apple mobile devices, such as iPhones and iPads, use native file encryption software called “Data Protection,” which generates a 256-bit key to encrypt files individually rather than the entire disk itself.
Secure all your devices from a single hub with NinjaOne’s all-in-one endpoint security software.
Leveraging FDE to protect critical business data
Full disk encryption offers extra protection for an organization’s endpoint devices and ensures that sensitive data remains protected. Even if an endpoint device is stolen or compromised, FDE prevents cybercriminals from reading the data.
Combine FDE with endpoint management tools to gain powerful remote control over access to business resources and sensitive data. NinjaOne Endpoint Management offers centralized visibility across an organization’s Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. Using NinjaOne enhances data protection from FDE with endpoint security tools such as encryption key management for BitLocker and Filevault.
Strengthen your IT security posture with G2’s no.1 endpoint management software. See NinjaOne in action for free. Get started with a 14-day trial or watch a demo.
