- Quick specs
- Price: Free
- Operating system: Mac OS X 10.5, Mac OS X 10.5 Intel, Mac OS X 10.4 Intel, Mac OS X 10.5 PPC, Mac OS X 10.4 PPC
- Date added: February 09, 2008
- Total Downloads: 10,417
- Downloads last week: 327
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A newer version of TrueCrypt is available.
(Download doesn't provide access to previous versions of this program.)
- CNET editors' rating: stars
- Average user rating: stars out of 3 votes
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CNET editors' review
Reviewed by: CNET Staff
The ultimate freeware encryption program, TrueCrypt is loaded with powerful features that those concerned with protecting their data from thievery should want--and have.
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 modify them another way. Dismount the volume, and voila--your previously accessible files are now safely secure from prying eyes.
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 :Free open-source disk encryption software for Windows Vista/XP , Mac OS X, and Linux.
Main Features:
- Creates a virtual encrypted disk within a file and mounts it as a real disk.
- Encrypts an entire hard disk partition or a storage device such as USB flash drive.
- Encryption is automatic, real-time (on-the-fly) and transparent.
- Provides two levels of plausible deniability, in case an adversary forces you to reveal the password:
- Hidden volume (steganography â?? more information may be found here).
- No TrueCrypt volume can be identified (volumes cannot be distinguished from random data).
- Encryption algorithms: AES-256, Serpent, and Twofish. Mode of operation: XTS.
What's new in this version:
 New features:- Ability to encrypt a system partition/drive (i.e. a partition/drive where Windows is installed) with pre-boot authentication (anyone who wants to gain access and use the system, read and write files, etc., needs to enter the correct password each time before the system starts). For more information, see the chapter System Encryption in the documentation.  (Windows Vista/XP/2003)
- Pipelined operations increasing read/write speed by up to 100%Â Â Â (Windows) see all new features
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User reviews of TrueCrypt 5.0
- Average user rating: 0 stars Not yet available
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This software version | All versions -
Version: TrueCrypt 5.0
"Desperatly needs an instuction book"
Cons: Have not been able to use it as there are no instructions. Contemplating just scrapping it.
- See 1 user review Write review
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