4 reasons to encrypt Linux partition

Encryption Home directory and other data on Linux is very simple. You can do that during the installation, or whenever using the distribution.

Although useful, encrypting Linux data is not always a good idea. Sure this sounds safe, so why is encrypting Linux drives such a bad idea? Consider why you should encrypt your Linux HDD and why you should look for an alternative.

Should we encrypt Linux partition?

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Most Linux distributions make it easy to encrypt the Home directory or even the entire partition without any problems. This is a great option if you need your data to be encrypted. In most cases, all you need to do is put a checkmark in the box and Linux takes care of the rest.

Unfortunately, some people choose this option simply because it sounds like a good option. While this is obviously true, they may not have thought (or may not know) the consequences of this. Indeed, some people do not even know what encryption really is. They just know it is a security option. Lack of knowledge of this technology can lead to the benefits of drive encryption being overstated, while the shortcomings are ignored.

It would be smarter to be aware of everything before making a decision to change the contents of a hard drive.

The reasons for encrypting Linux drives include:

1. Protect personal data from loss or theft
2. Prevent theft of sensitive corporate data
3. Prevent the remote monitoring
4. Protect sensitive data from third parties

Meanwhile, some of the negative consequences of disk encryption are:

1. Making data recovery becomes more difficult
2. Restoring the entire system is almost impossible
3. Affect system performance

Let's explore all of this in more detail in the section below.

4 reasons to encrypt Linux drive

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The article will begin with the reasons that should immediately encrypt Linux data. These can be specific files, one or more partitions or even entire drives.

1. Protect personal data from loss or theft

For standard users, especially laptop owners, this is an important point. You will not want to risk personal data or the possibility that someone will access your email and cloud account, if the device is stolen.

Hard drive encryption will block access to these items. Whether files, partitions or entire disks are encrypted, their content will be meaningless to anyone, without the encryption key.

2. Prevent theft of sensitive company data

Similarly, if you use your computer to work, encryption is a smart choice. Whether it's a laptop or desktop computer, the device should have encryption enabled. The importance of this may affect the industry in which you are working (for example, protecting patient data in healthcare).

However, it is smart to only use encryption at work. Protecting data from corporate espionage or Whaling Attack attacks is a smart thing to do.

3. Prevent remote monitoring

Encrypting an entire Linux system drive can also prevent remote monitoring. A hacker with access to a computer will not be able to read encrypted data. An agency responsible for monitoring data will not be able to open your files.

4. Protect sensitive data from third parties

If you manage data for others (whether it's customers or anyone), encrypting the drive is a wise thing to do. Encryption helps protect your data from risk, and helps you get out of trouble if your data is lost or stolen.

Remember that if the data is still encrypted, it cannot be eavesdropped. Except for the very rare possibility that the encryption function is corrupt, no data can be secured.

Arguments against encryption of Linux drives

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Disk encryption is a great idea, but make sure you know what it means. In the article: 4 reasons why Linux partitions should not be encrypted, Quantrimang.com made it clear why encryption should not always be used.

As always, the choice is entirely up to you. If you feel that you need to encrypt the entire Home directory or even the entire partition, do so, as long as you are aware of what you will face in case something goes wrong.

On the other hand, if you want to leave the drive unencrypted and secure your data in other ways, you can do the same. Just make sure your data is as safe as promised.

If you decide to choose encryption, this is how to encrypt your personal data on Linux.

Hope you are succesful.