FullDiskVerschlüsselung

FullDiskVerschlüsselung, also known as Full Disk Encryption (FDE) or whole disk encryption, is a security technology that encrypts all data stored on a computer's hard drive or other storage devices. This means that even if the physical device is stolen or accessed without authorization, the data remains unreadable without the correct decryption key. The encryption process typically happens at the block level, meaning that every sector of the drive is encrypted.

When a system with full disk encryption is powered on, it usually requires the user to enter a passphrase or password before the operating system can boot. This passphrase is used to derive the decryption key, which then unlocks the drive and allows the system to access the data. Without this initial authentication, the encrypted data is inaccessible.

Full disk encryption is a crucial security measure for protecting sensitive information, especially on portable devices like laptops and smartphones, which are more susceptible to loss or theft. It helps comply with data protection regulations and prevents unauthorized access to personal or confidential data. Common implementations include BitLocker for Windows, FileVault for macOS, and LUKS (Linux Unified Key Setup) for Linux. While it significantly enhances security, it can sometimes introduce a slight performance overhead and requires careful management of decryption keys to avoid data loss.