Encryption is simply the encoding of messages so that they cannot be read by anyone who does not know how to decode them.

How does Encryption work?
Encryption algorithms are based on the concept of complex mathematics that work only in one direction generally based on the difficulty of factoring very large numbers (which are the product of large primes) called keys that are used for encryption. For example, anyone can multiply two large prime numbers to obtain a result, but it is very difficult for someone else to get back the two primes. This is to say that mathematicians have yet to figure out a method for retrieving the math effectively. In this way, cryptography has been a secure method of ensuring data confidentiality over computer networks.

How secure is Encryption?
A file that is encrypted with a strong encryption algorithm, for example as used in the Cypherix™ range of products (448 bit symmetrical algorithm), would be statistically impregnable against brute force attacks. It would take 10³² years for the all the fastest computer in existence to break into the file! To put this in perspective, the age of the universe is approximately 10¹⁸ years.

Why Encrypt?
Every business possesses certain vital information- a unique formula, specialised customer database, financial data etc. The organisation would be quite disabled if such data fell into the wrong hands.

Till a few years ago, protecting such information was relatively easy. All one required was a strong safe with a single key, and a trusted employee to handle it. However, there is no privacy of any kind in a PC. Encryption is the only way to protect your privacy. Currently, save strong encryption, there are no methods available to perform this absolutely necessary and critical function.

Local methods such as passwords within most programs (Word, Excel, Access etc.) can be broken by mere novices without any computing knowledge, given the plethora of password breaking programs available on the Internet.