CNET Editors' review
The ultimate freeware encryption program, TrueCrypt is loaded with powerful features that users concerned with protecting data from prying eyes will find robust and comprehensive.
It has 11 algorithms for encrypting your private files in a password-protected volume. You can store your encrypted data in files (containers) or partitions (devices). TrueCrypt works hard to offer powerful data protection, recommending complex passwords, explaining the benefits of hidden volumes, and erasing telltale signs of the encryption process, including mouse movements and keystrokes. Though the interface may not be intuitive, its powerful, on-the-fly encryption for no cost still earns the freeware security tool a top rating.
The useful tips in the extensive help manual and volume-creation wizard provide excellent guidance. In fact, they're required reading, as TrueCrypt lacks any considerable in-program help. For instance, the tutorial explains the entire concept beyond "hidden" volumes, but it doesn't quite explain how to mount them. One obvious downside of any strong encryption program is if you happen to forget your lengthy, secure password, you should consider any protected files as good as gone. However, once files are mounted to a local drive with your password or key, they conveniently behave just like any normal files, allowing you to easily open, copy, delete, or other modify them another way. Dismount the volume, and voila--your previously accessible files are now safely secure from prying eyes.
The apps newer features include hardware acceleration for some Intel chips, auto-mounting, and convenience improvements for when you "favorite" an encrypted volume have improved both performance and usability. Users can even create a hidden operating system, encrypted away from nosy busybodies, but make no mistake--TrueCrypt is not for the casual encryption explorer. Be sure to thoroughly understand what you're doing with the program before you do something regrettable.
Publisher's Description
From TrueCrypt Foundation:
Protect your sensitive data with this free open-source disk encryption software. Creates a virtual encrypted disk within a file and mount it as a real disk. Encrypt an entire hard disk partition or a device, such as USB flash drive. Automatically and transparently encrypt in real time.
TrueCrypt provides two levels of plausible deniability, in case an adversary forces you to reveal the password: a hidden volume (steganography- more information may be found here); no TrueCrypt volume can be identified (volumes cannot be distinguished from random data). TrueCrypt uses encryption algorithms AES-256, Blowfish (448-bit key), CAST5, Serpent, Triple DES, and Twofish. It is based on Encryption for the Masses (E4M) 2.02a, conceived in 1997.
What's new in this version: Version 7.1a contains minor improvements and bug fixes.
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All versions:
4.3 starsout of 305 votes
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Current version:
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My rating:
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"Works as advertised"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
Easy to install.
Easy to encrypt.
Easy to use.Cons
Haven't found any yet.
Summary
I've never used a product like this before. It worked as advertised. I've encrypted a folder and an entire external drive without any problems. When I mount them it's impossible to tell that they aren't an actual folder or drive. Highly recommended.
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"Excellent and Free!"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
I have tried at least a half dozen encryption programs and this is the only one that is consistently trouble-free.(I've gotten locked out of some of the others) The interface is not intuitively obvious, but once you've had a run-through, everything becomes clear.A couple of easy steps is all that it takes to access the encrypted data, which is very, very secure.Using a strong password makes the system pretty well hacker-proof.Did I mention that it's FREE?
Cons
Could be made a little more intuitive, but this is a very minor point.Otherwise I have no problems with it.
Summary
This is far and away the best encryption program. I don't know why it's not downloaded more.
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"EXCELLENT FREE PROGRAM!!!"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
Works well for its intended purpose. I like how you can set it up to work through the command line.
Cons
None that I have come across.
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"secure and easy to use"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
secure and easy to use
Cons
secure and easy to use
Summary
secure and easy to use
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"Pretty good"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
Works fine.
Beginners' tutorial clear, detailed and explicit.
Fast - no noticeable delay watching video clips, for example.Cons
I wanted to encrypt most of a 16GB memory stick but because containers are limited by FAT32 to 4GB I have had to set up several. I'd like access to any file during a session and am still examining whether this is possible and, if so, whether it's best to have several encrypted folders per "drive" letter or several drives each with a single folder.
Summary
It's free and it's good.
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"It works as expected!"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
Works excellent with all USB Sticks.
Cons
Installation isn't self-explaining. Dismount and Mount button should be visualized by an icon.
Summary
Good tool for securing data on sticks.
A TrueCryt gadget would be great! -
"Great Product, provides security at the right Price $0!"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
The product allows me to have information on a 'thumb' drive and not be concerned that if I lose it I would be concerned about identity theft.
Cons
A little cumbersome to use, but this might be the nature of the beast.
Summary
Good product, right price.
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"Great & Free"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.1
Pros
I love this program,Very simple and valueable.
Cons
Nothing. Nothing.
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"Amazing Free Program"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.0a
Pros
I'm not sure what some people are experiencing but I've been using this program on x64 systems with 8 and 16GB ram without performance issues. This program does everything I need and is one of the first applications I install.
Cons
I have encountered no issues.
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"Nothing is better to secure a file or entire drive."
Version: TrueCrypt 7.0a
Pros
Open source software has the advantage of knowing the program lacks a concealed back-door. The software allows absolute confidence in data encryption in the event of laptop theft or loss. The data is inaccessible to anyone without the password.
Cons
The free manual available from TrueCrypt Org. must be carefully reviewed prior to use. Never forget the password or the data is lost, remember, no back door.
Summary
Safer and far less expensive (free) then most commercially available encryption programs.
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