What is Whole disk encryption?
Whole disk encryption Definition: A type of encryption in which an entire disk partition is encrypted rather than just selected files.
Understanding Whole disk encryption
Whole disk encryption is a security strategy that enciphers an entire disk partition—including the operating system, temporary files, and user data—instead of targeting individual files. This comprehensive method, also known as full disk encryption, ensures that if the physical device is lost or stolen, all data remains inaccessible without proper authorization. Typically, a pre-boot authentication step is required so that only verified users can decrypt and access the disk’s contents.
Widely endorsed by standards such as NIST SP 800-111 and various data protection regulations, whole disk encryption is implemented via hardware solutions, specialized software tools, or centralized enterprise management systems. For instance, a healthcare organization might deploy this technology across its laptops, workstations, and servers, using integrated solutions that enforce encryption policies, utilize hardware security modules for key protection, support multi-factor authentication during boot, maintain secure recovery keys, and generate compliance reports.
Related terms include Encryption, Data at Rest Protection, BitLocker, FileVault, LUKS, Drive Encryption, Pre-Boot Authentication, TPM, Cryptographic Key Management, and Data Protection.