In an effort to provide more robust data security on employee laptops, IT will be rolling out laptop encryption for all users who are using a Sheridan owned or leased Windows-based laptop. These users will also be able to encrypt external drives and/or USB memory keys.
When will Encryption Be Available?
We will begin the rollout during the summer months with a group of pilot users. Complete implementation details will be available at the conclusion of the pilot.
What will Encryption Do?
Encrypting your laptop’s hard drive will protect you and your data in the event your laptop – or the hard drive itself – were to ever fall into the wrong hands, be it lost or stolen. An unauthorized user accessing your hard drive would see only useless, jumbled text.
Disk Encryption Does Not Make Your Laptop Entirely Secure
It’s important to note, however, that disk encryption is only useful against attackers that have physical access to your computer or hard drive. It doesn’t make your computer any harder to attack over a network. You should still be vigilant to safeguard your password(s) and protect yourself against online threats such as spam and phishing, malware, ransomware, malicious websites and hacking.
User Experience
The end-user experience is largely the same as it is today, with no negative impact to your day-to-day activities or your laptop’s performance.
More Information
Additional details will be communicated following the completion of the pilot period. If you have any questions or concerns in the meantime, contact the IT Service Desk at servicedesk@sheridancollege.ca or call ext. 2150.