Desktop Development - Laptop Encrytion | Information Systems and Services

Laptop Encryption

Overview | Laptops | Phones | Documents for Email

How McAfee Encryption Work’s on a Laptop

McAfee fully encrypts the entire hard drive and all data including the operating system. As part of the installation a ‘recovery key’ is created. This ‘recovery key’ is used to decrypt the laptop in the case of maintenance on the laptop or expiry of account. The 'recovery key' is stored on a secure DCU server and can only be accessed by IS Services staff.

This comprehensive encryption of the hard disk provides the best possible security should the laptop be lost or stolen, provided the user has not physically written down their username and password and left them somewhere that would allow them to be lost or stolen with the laptop. In the eventuality of theft an audit record exists confirming that all data and software on the laptop has been encrypted. What this means is that the contents of the entire hard drive will be made unreadable to unauthorized users

After McAfee is installed an important change is that the user will be prompted to login with McAfee before the operating system is started, typically immediately after the manufacturer's logo is displayed when you power on the laptop, but before the computer boots into Windows. It is still necessary to login into Windows as well, as a different password will need to be created for the encryption login.

Please note that this service does not backup your data. All users are still responsible for backing up the data on the computers they use.

McAfee Endpoint Encryption for PC:

Some of the main features using McAfee encryption include:

• Enforce strong access control with pre-boot authentication

• Enable transparent encryption without hindering users or system performance

• Ensure consistent protection across all devices

• Supports mixed device environments including solid-state drives

• New architecture ready to support emerging self-encrypting hard drive standards

McAfee Encryption Service FAQ

- If you have any queries regarding the Mcafee Encryption Service you can submit a ticket to the ISS Service Desk, https://iss.servicedesk.dcu.ie. All the General Requirements, Application Processes, Support and FAQ can be found here:

DCU Encryption Service - FAQ (PDF)