TrueCrypt Editor's Review

TrueCrypt is a free encryption utility designed to keep your data safe from curios eyes and prevent data theft of destruction.

TrueCrypt can create three types of encrypted volumes: file-hosted (container) ,partition/device-hosted or you can encrypt an entire partition or system drive.

A very useful feature of this program is the fact that it allows you to create visible or hidden encrypted vaults. Hidden volumes can be created within a visible encrypted volume. A perpetrator can be deceived by storing non-relevant data in the visible volume, when the important data will be kept secret and undetected. Encrypted volumes can be created using the wizard. The wizard will also offer you additional information about algorithms or other features.

After the volumes have been created, they will be mounted for use and unmounted for securing data. When a volume is mounted, it can be used just as any partition already existing on the system.

In order to secure your data, you can choose between several strong AES (Advanced encryption Standard) algorithms such as: Rijndael, Serpent or Twofish with up to 256-bit keys and 128-bit blocks. The encrypted volume size can be customized in order to have enough space for your secret files. Of course, the access to the encrypted volumes is secured by passwords. The program will notify you when the chosen password is too weak and can easily be broken by brute force or dictionary attacks.

The program can also be used on removable devices, such as a USB Flash drive. No installation is required on such a device. It is enough to unzip the content of the downloaded archive and copy the directory named 'Setup files' onto the removable drive.

Pluses: The program has lots of pluses such as keyfiles. Any file can be a keyfile (avi, zip, rar, mp3, etc.). The content of the keyfile is combined with the password. So, if you fail to provide the correct keyfile, even though you are in possession of the correct password, you won't be able to open an encrypted volume. However, due to the complexity of the program, all these features can make it difficult to use for beginners. Anyway, it is best if one reads the 'Help' section and the program's documentation, otherwise, one might create system instability or even corrupt data.

Drawbacks / flaws:

In conclusion: An excellent program, best recommended for advanced users.

version reviewed: 7.0