As part of our ongoing data security efforts, data encryption using Dell Data Security (DDS) encryption software (formerly DDPE) is available to all current faculty and staff. DDS should be installed on all BC-owned computers that store confidential data. For most laptops, the software can be automatically installed without any action on your part.
- Any computer that contains sensitive data should be encrypted.
- You should always perform a successful backup of your computer before you start the encryption process.
Technical Requirements
What are the minimum requirements supported?
- Processor: Intel Pentium class or AMD
- RAM: 2 GB
- Hard Drive Space: 2 GB free hard drive space
- macOS 10.15 (Catalina)
- macOS 10.14 (Mojave)
- macOS 10.13 (High Sierra)
- Windows 10.
Note: DDS is not available for Windows 10 S at this time. - Windows 8.1
- Windows 8
Dell Data Security (DDS) encryption software is not available for Linux at this time.
If you are running Linux on your BC primary laptop or on any computer that contains sensitive data, please contact the Help Center at 617-552-HELP (4357).
Dell Data Security (DDS) encryption software is not available for Chromebook at this time.
FAQ
Encryption is the process of converting data to an unrecognizable or "encrypted" form. It is commonly used to protect sensitive information so that only authorized parties can view it.
Dell Data Security (DDS) [formerly DDPE] is a software based encryption solution for endpoints. It helps protect sensitive data on devices by encrypting the endpoint with defined policies, which can be managed centrally by IT.
With Dell Data Security we will be using Folder and File Based Encryption for Windows and Volume Based (FileVault2) Encryption for Macs.
With File Based Encryption, we have the ability to tailor the encryption software settings to fit the needs of the University. These settings are under review and more information will be available once finalized. To provide an idea of what is expected to be encrypted, most folders and files under the user profile, files created using productivity applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Notepad, etc. and most system folders and files such as System Paging File along with Temporary Files. Folders required for the system to boot will not be encrypted.
For Macs, we will be using FileVault2, which is Volume Based Encryption. We will be able to manage the endpoints through the Dell Management Console giving us a central repository for all encrypted endpoints.
All ITS Staff (including contractors) are required to have their primary laptop encrypted.
Yes. All ITS contractors must also have encryption software on their laptops.
Yes. Contact your TC for details.
No. At this time, there is no DDS software available for Linux. If you are running Linux on your BC primary laptop or on any computer that contains sensitive data, please contact the Help Center at 617-552-HELP (4357).
Yes. If you have a BC desktop that contains sensitive data, then it should be encrypted.
Yes, we recommend you backup your files using CrashPlan Backup. Learn more:
Once the software is installed, it will need to encrypt the data. This process can take 4-6 hours to complete, depending on the hardware. The Encryption sweep will run in the background taking minimal resources. Once the encryption process is completed, the software will encrypt new data immediately when created or added to the hard drive, keeping CPU use to a minimal. After the initial encryption sweep is completed, you should not see a decrease in performance.
No. And, you will follow the same process to logon to your computer and use the computer the same as you normally would. The software will encrypt the data based on the policies applied. Computer performance should not be impacted. If you feel that your computer performance is being affected by encryption, please contact the Help Center at 617-552-HELP (4357).
No, we have not seen any effect on folder\files used with Google Drive. When the Google Desktop Sync Utility copies the folders\files to Google Drive they are not encrypted. This is because the utility has access to the necessary keys during the sync process. When folder and files are copied to the Desktop Google Drive, they will be encrypted.
There are multiple ways, including:
- DDS icon appears in the System Tray
- View the properties of the file and you will see an Encryption tab
- View Features and Programs and look for Dell Data Security (DDS) software