TrueCrypt vs Windows BitLocker : Which is Better?
TrueCrypt
TrueCrypt is an open source software to encrypt volumes of data. It even supports the creation of virtual encrypted volumes which is portable. Developed by TrueCrypt Foundation
License: Open Source
Windows BitLocker
BitLocker is a full disk encryption feature included with Windows Vista and later. It is designed to protect data by providing encryption for entire volumes. By default, it uses the AES encryption algorithm in cipher block chaining (CBC) or XTS mode with a 128-bit or 256-bit key. Developed by Microsoft
License: Commercial
TrueCrypt VS Windows BitLocker
TrueCrypt is an open-source encryption tool that offers greater flexibility and cross-platform support, but it is no longer maintained. BitLocker, on the other hand, is a user-friendly encryption tool integrated into Windows, providing seamless operation but is limited to Windows systems and raises concerns about proprietary software.
TrueCrypt
Pros:
- Open-source and free to use
- Supports multiple encryption algorithms
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Allows creation of hidden volumes for additional security
- No backdoor access for developers
Cons:
- No longer actively maintained or updated
- Potential compatibility issues with newer operating systems
- User interface can be complex for beginners
Windows BitLocker
Pros:
- Integrated with Windows operating system
- User-friendly interface with simple setup
- Automatic encryption of entire drives
- Supports TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for enhanced security
- Seamless recovery options using recovery keys
Cons:
- Proprietary software with potential backdoor concerns
- Limited to Windows OS (not cross-platform)
- Recovery options can be less flexible than TrueCrypt
Compare TrueCrypt
