Top 10 Trends in Data Encryption:
An In-depth Analysis on AES-256
In the wake of heightened cyber threats and the growing need for secure communication and data storage in an era of compliance, understanding these trends is crucial. This eBook is tailored to inform, educate, and guide those interested in data encryption, particularly in the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)-256 standard, whether you are a cybersecurity enthusiast, a professional in the field, or a tech-savvy individual intrigued by the subject.
Origins of the AES Standard
AES has become the de facto worldwide encryption standard since its establishment by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) roughly two decades ago. This specification replaced the Data Encryption Standard (DES), a 56-bit key encryption model introduced in 1977 that was later cracked. As an interim measure, DES was strengthened into Triple DES, which employed three passes of the DES algorithm. AES, initially developed over six years with international cryptographic experts, provides encryption using key lengths of 128, 192, and 256 bits. The latter two key lengths are suitable for encrypting top-secret information.
However, as technology evolves, especially with the potential rise of quantum computers, new encryption challenges arise. Quantum computers pose a significant threat to asymmetric cryptography or public key encryption, like the RSA algorithm. Recognizing this, NIST initiated a project in 2016 to develop new public-key encryption algorithms, and out of 82 initial contributions, seven candidates are now under final consideration with a standard expected by 2024. Experts assert that transitioning to longer AES key lengths, like from AES-128 to AES-256, would offer the same security level as before quantum computing’s advent.
From a technical perspective, the AES, based on the Rijndael block cipher created by Belgian cryptographers Joan Daemen and Vincent Rijmen, operates symmetrically, meaning the same key is used for both encryption and decryption. With up to 14 operational rounds based on key size, it employs a mix of substitution and permutation techniques. As of now, while various attacks have been attempted on AES, none have been computationally successful in decrypting data without the key.
Kiteworks’ End-to-End Encryption for Sensitive Content Communications
The Kiteworks platform provides end-to-end encryption across multiple communication channels, including email, file sharing, managed file transfer, and web forms. This ensures that sensitive data is always protected, regardless of the communication method used. Following are highlights of Kiteworks’ end-to-end encryption capabilities, which are augmented with advanced security technology layers.
Kiteworks Uses Double Encryption
Kiteworks uses advanced encryption methods to secure data. This includes double encryption at rest in the Kiteworks repository, where data is encrypted twice for added security. The file is first encrypted with a unique key, and then the data is encrypted a second time with the disk volume’s key before it is written to the device. Using double encryption, Kiteworks ensures that even if one layer is compromised, the data remains secure.
Managed File Transfer Secure Encryption Transmission
For managed file transfer, Kiteworks uses secure protocols such as SFTP and HTTPS to ensure that data is encrypted during transmission. The platform also supports automated file transfers, where files are encrypted, transferred, and decrypted automatically according to a predefined schedule or trigger.
End-to-End Email Encryption
Kiteworks provides encryption options such as S/MIME and OpenPGP that seamlessly integrate into native email clients such as Outlook and Gmail, with automated key management that’s completely invisible to users. This means that users can send and receive encrypted emails directly from their preferred email client, without needing to use a separate application or plugin. This seamless integration enhances user experience and ensures that encryption is used consistently across all email communications.
Web Forms Encrypted From Submission to Storage
Kiteworks’ end-to-end encryption for web forms means that any data entered into a web form is encrypted before it is sent over the network and is encrypted while it is stored on the server. This protects sensitive data such as personal information, credit card numbers, and passwords from being intercepted or accessed by unauthorized individuals.
File Sharing Encrypted: From First to Third Parties
In addition to email encryption, Kiteworks also provides end-to-end encryption for file sharing. This includes both internal file sharing within the organization and external file sharing with third parties. The platform encrypts files before they are sent and keeps them encrypted while they are stored on the server. Kiteworks access controls ensure only the intended recipient(s) can decrypt and access files, requiring only a standard browser and handling encryption keys invisibly behind the scenes.
Wrapped in Security Layers and Advanced Security Technology
Beyond encryption, Kiteworks uses other advanced security technologies to protect data. This includes a hardened virtual appliance, which is a secure, self-contained system that runs the Kiteworks platform. The hardened virtual appliance has built-in security features such as a network firewall, intrusion detection system, and web application firewall. These features protect the system from external threats and minimize vulnerabilities. Kiteworks also enables seamless integration of technologies such as content disarm and reconstruction (CDR), advanced threat protection (ATP), and data loss prevention (DLP).
Kiteworks also has an ongoing bug bounty program and performs regular penetration testing to identify and fix potential security vulnerabilities. The platform also supports one-click appliance updates, which make it easy to apply the latest security patches and updates.
AES-256 Encryption: Tried and Tested Requirement
The world of data encryption is dynamic, reflecting both the evolution of technology and the shifting landscape of threats. AES-256 continues to play a crucial role in maintaining data security in this complex context. As encryption trends evolve and new methods emerge, the importance of robust, tried-and-tested encryption standards like AES-256 cannot be overstated. AES-256 encryption in Kiteworks is one of a much larger set of security layers that enables organizations across industry sectors to protect sensitive content communications privacy while maintaining compliance with cybersecurity standards and data privacy regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
AES-256 encryption is a symmetric encryption algorithm that uses a 256-bit key to encrypt and decrypt data. It is considered one of the most secure encryption methods and is widely used in many industries to protect sensitive data.
Kiteworks uses AES-256 encryption to protect data at rest. This means that all data stored on the Kiteworks platform is encrypted using this method. This includes files, emails, and other sensitive data. The encryption keys are managed by the AWS Key Management Service, ensuring that only authorized users can access the encrypted data.
Yes, Kiteworks also uses encryption for data in transit. Communications between the users and Kiteworks are encrypted using SSL/TLS, which can include AES-256 encryption, depending on the specific configuration.
Yes, customers have the flexibility to alter the cipher suite and deactivate cryptographic controls if desired. However, it’s important to note that doing so may impact the level of security provided by the platform.
AES-256 encryption is secure because it uses a large key size of 256 bits, which makes it extremely difficult for an attacker to guess the key and decrypt the data. Additionally, AES-256 is a symmetric encryption method, which means the same key is used for both encryption and decryption. This key is kept secret and is only known to the sender and receiver, further enhancing the security of the data.