Sage-Tips

Can files be compressed and encrypted at the same time?

So yes, you can compress encrypted files. But since encrypted data is very similar to random data, it doesn’t compress very well – so if you can, compress before encrypting. Otherwise the “compression” will be fairly useless.

Why is compression done before PGP encryption?

As a default, PGP compresses the message, using the compression algorithm ZIP, after applying the signature and before encryption. This is done because: It is preferable to sign an uncompressed message so that the signature does not depend on the compression algorithm.

Is encrypting twice more secure?

No, encrypting a block twice with the same algorithm and key does not introduce any weakness. But on the other hand, it does not increase security either. The only difference is that a brute-force attack will take twice as long to perform.

When combining encryption and compression would you encrypt and then compress or compress and then encrypt?

You should compress before encrypting. Encryption turns your data into high-entropy data, usually indistinguishable from a random stream. Compression relies on patterns in order to gain any size reduction.

Is PGP encryption really secure?

Ability to share information with others (including individuals AND groups) in a secure manner.

Emails secured with PGP encryption cannot be infected by email attacks or penetrated.

The software is very easy to learn and use and requires very little training.

Can GPG decrypt files encrypted by PGP?

You can use the PGP Decrypt File activity to decrypt files that were encrypted as part of a backup operation. To use this activity, you must install the gpg executable.

Which file do you use to encrypt files?

GnuPG is an open-source program used by the standard activities PGP Encrypt file and PGP Decrypt file to encrypt and decrypt files. The following procedures describe how to install this executable program and associated file on a runbook server or computer that is running the Runbook Designer.

How do I encrypt/decrypt a file?

1 Right click or press and hold on a file you want to decrypt, and click/tap on Properties. 2 In the General tab, click/tap on the Advanced button. (see screenshot below) 3 Check the Encrypt contents to secure data box, and click/tap on OK. (see screenshot below) 4 Click/tap on OK. (see screenshot below)