Disk-level cryptography in Linux

SECRETS AND DISKS

Article from Issue 72/2006
Author(s):

Today’s computers are fast enough for some very sophisticated cryptography techniques. We’ll show you how to keep your data safe from the prying eyes of snoops and spies.

Spies, soldiers, and mathematicians have been toying with cryptography for centuries, and every year, computer users gain new powers for concealing their documents and messages. Of course, users need new and better techniques for hiding their data because computers are getting so accessible and portable. What if you leave your laptop at Starbucks? Or what if an intruder slips into an empty chair at one of the 100 desktop PCs on your office network? Encrypted filesystems offer powerful protection for today’s casual computer culture. With an encrypted filesystem, your data is safe even if the computer is turned off and the disk is removed. If you’ve ever worried about spies, soldiers, mathematicians, and everyday nosy people getting their hands on your valuable information, you’ll love this month’s Crypto Hacks cover story.

Buy this article as PDF

Express-Checkout as PDF
Price $2.95
(incl. VAT)

Buy Linux Magazine

SINGLE ISSUES
 
SUBSCRIPTIONS
 
TABLET & SMARTPHONE APPS
Get it on Google Play

US / Canada

Get it on Google Play

UK / Australia

Related content

  • Encrypted Filesystems

    If you’re not a security expert and you're looking for a crypto filesystem, you may be wondering about the alternatives. We took at a look at some popular crypto options for Linux.

  • Web Cryptography API

    The controversial Web Cryptography API offers flexible encryption for web applications, but it also lays the groundwork for content providers to implement more powerful access restrictions through DRM.

  • Smart Access Intro

    Maybe password security isn't perfect, but most networks depend on it. This month we examine some tools for smarter, more versatile authentication.

  • Device Tricks Intro

    Linux is getting much better at managing devices, and the versatility of open source software leads to some interesting innovations.

  • Linux Tuning Intro

    Are your multimedia applications receiving the resources they need? Are you using the optimum filesystem for your environment? You don't have to be an expert to find better performance in Linux – you just need to know where to look.

comments powered by Disqus
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters

Support Our Work

Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

Learn More

News