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Why Encryption is Essential
In today’s digital landscape, encryption is essential. If you’re working toward cybersecurity compliance with standards like CMMC or ISO 27001, you’ve likely encountered the term “encryption.” But what does it really mean and why does it matter so much?
What Is Encryption?
At its core, encryption is data protection through transformation. That means it turns readable data like documents, spreadsheets, and images into a scrambled format that’s unintelligible without a specific decryption key.
This process applies no matter where data resides:
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At rest: stored on disks or servers
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In transit: moving across networks
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In process: being used or manipulated
Even if attackers access encrypted data, they cannot read or use the data without a key.
Why Is Encryption Important?
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Confidentiality: Keeps sensitive data private.
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IntEncryption isn’t just about keeping secrets. A robust encryption strategy strengthens four fundamental pillars of cybersecurity:egrity: Ensures that data hasn’t been altered.
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Authentication: Confirms the identity of data senders.
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Non-repudiation: Prevents individuals from denying their actions.
This means encryption helps protect your organization from cyber threats and builds trust with clients, partners, and regulators. It can reduce the impact of data breaches and help protect your most valuable digital assets.
Best Practices for Building a Strong Encryption Strategy
- Full-Disk Encryption: Protects laptops and portable devices.
- Database Encryption: Secures sensitive data at rest.
- EncryEncryption should be layered across your entire infrastructure, not just applied in one place. Here are some key practices to consider:pted Backups: Safeguards your backups from unauthorized access.
- VPNs for Remote Access: Ensures secure connectivity for remote workers.
- File/Folder Protection: Adds a second layer of protection for critical files.
- Email Encryption: Keeps sensitive communications private.
This approach helps ensure that no single point of failure can expose critical data.
Not Just a Checkbox
Encryption is a strategic security control that reduces risk, protects reputation, and underpins trust. Whether your organization is pursuing certification or simply strengthening its cybersecurity posture, a thoughtful encryption strategy is important.
If you’re working on CMMC or ISO 27001 compliance, or if you just want to better protect your digital assets, encryption should be central to your planning, implementation, and risk management strategy.
How Can Smithers Help?
If you are working on compliance with CMMC or ISO 27001, we can help you! Contact us today to start the conversation.