What is Full-Disk Encryption (FDE)?

Disks and drives store massive amounts of critical data, making their security against cybercriminals a top priority. 

In this blog, you'll learn what full-disk encryption (FDE) is and why it is critical to the protection of an entire disk volume and all files on a drive against unauthorized access.

What is full-disk encryption (FDE)?

Full-disk encryption (FDE), or hard drive encryption, transforms information in a storage medium into a secret format that can only be understood by people or systems who are allowed access to the information.

FDE transfers all information on the system's hard drive from plaintext into ciphertext, protecting the entire disk volume and all files on the drive, as well as the operating system, against unauthorized access. 

Why is FDE important?

If sensitive information is easily accessible, it makes the system an easy target for cybercriminals. FDE offers protection against cyberattacks by ensuring information is viewed only by authorized individuals. 

Benefits of FDE

An extra layer of security 

FDE occurs on the hard drive itself and does not require the assistance of software. Everything that goes onto the drive is encrypted. 

The operating system and all files are encrypted when the computer is turned off and is not decrypted until it is turned on again. 

Preventing data breaches

FDE makes it more difficult to access the data that is encrypted on the device. Any user that is unauthorized would need not only physical access to the computer but also a master password to log in. 

If a device or system is stoled or misplaced, the data cannot be decrypted even if the hard drive is removed and put in another machine, ensuring that critical data remains safe. 

Keeping devices easy to use yet safe

FDE is a passive security measure that can be easily implemented and does not require users to take any extra steps to ensure security, as encryption happens automatically the moment a piece of data is saved to a device. 

In addition, FDE is also easy to implement, as all major operating systems provide some capability for it. 

FDE and Trenton Systems

At Trenton, we are committed to multi-layer cybersecurity across the hardware, firmware, and software layer stack to guard critical data at the highest level with the latest cybersecurity technologies including FIPS 140-2 SEDs. 

Trenton Systems is currently working with CDSG to strengthen full-disk encryption using CDGS’s CITADEL NIAP-listed SSDs.

Our partnership ecosystem enables us to ensure complete protection of data at rest, data in transit, and data in use to thwart unauthorized access and preserve functionality. 

Want to learn more? Get in touch with our team of experts to craft a ruggedized, USA-made, high-performance compute solution to ensure optimal performance across all domains of the modern battlespace, no matter where the mission leads.