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 offers 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 immediately 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:
TrueCrypt is a software system for establishing and maintaining an on-the-fly-encrypted volume (data storage device). On-the-fly encryption means that data is automatically encrypted or decrypted right before it is loaded or saved, without any user intervention. No data stored on an encrypted volume can be read (decrypted) without using the correct password/keyfile(s) or correct encryption keys. Entire file system is encrypted (e.g., file names, folder names, contents of every file, free space, meta data, etc).
What's new in this version: Minor improvements and bug fixes.
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All versions:
3.9 starsout of 10 votes
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Current version:
4.0 starsout of 2 votes
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Results 1-2 of 2
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"Pardon me this version came out in September 2010"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.0a
Pros
According to www.truecrypt.org version 7.0a was released 2010-09-06
Cons
According to www.truecrypt.org version 7.0a was released 2010-09-06
Summary
Someone needs to setup CNETs version tracking correctly
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"One of the easier encryption utilities to use"
Version: TrueCrypt 7.0a
Pros
Easy to use, quick, and unobtrusive. And of course, free!
Cons
Something true of all encrypted folders and volumes: The slightest change will cause Time Machine to re-save the entire archive. You need to exclude encrypted folders or volumes from backup, if they're of significant size.
Summary
Quick, easy, and more than good enough for any rational user.
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