What is the purpose of file-level encryption?

The purpose of file-level encryption primarily revolves around securing the data contained within files and folders. This method protects sensitive information by converting it into an unreadable format, accessible only to authorized users with the appropriate decryption keys. By encrypting data at the file level, organizations can ensure that even if unauthorized individuals gain access to the storage medium, they will not be able to interpret the contents without the necessary encryption credentials.

File-level encryption is particularly vital in environments where data confidentiality is paramount, such as in healthcare, finance, or any sector handling personally identifiable information (PII). The focus on safeguarding the data itself distinguishes file-level encryption from other functions, such as protecting against malware, which would be more relevant to cybersecurity measures rather than data encryption.

Moreover, this approach does not inherently affect file size, which rules out compression as a function of file-level encryption, nor does it directly relate to data backup management, as those processes serve different purposes in data protection and recovery strategies. Thus, the primary goal is centered on enhancing the security of the data stored within the files, making them inaccessible to unauthorized users.