PGP Whole Disk Encryption Quick Start Guide

Login information:

The login screen for machines enabled with PGP Whole Disk Encryption looks like this:

At this screen you will enter your username & password combination (typically your AD login/BlazerID & password). Once the correct username & password combination is entered, the operating system will boot up and your machine will function as normal.

If your password changes:

Any time you change your password for AD, you will have to re-enter the old password to PGP one last time before the PGP system is updated with the new password information.

Please call AskIT at 6-5555 so that they may assist you in resetting your password.

For more information:

http://www.uab.edu/it/software/PGP

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why is UAB implementing this software?

Our goal is to implement an important layer of access protection that will protect the data on systems that are portable and on systems in areas that have a high risk of theft. This software allows for the data on the hard drive(s) to be encrypted. The data on the system will not be accessible until an authorized user provides their strong password.

What systems are going to be using this software?

All UAB owned laptops will need to have this software installed regardless of the information that the individual works with. We are also recommending that systems in areas that have a high risk of theft implement this software.

How long will I have to give up my laptop?

The process usually takes anywhere from 8-12 business hours depending on the hardware and the amount & complexity of the data on the drive. The preferred method is to take the machine early one day and return it around lunch time on the next day. Getting a late start on the first day may mean multiple nights without the use of a laptop.

Why does the process take so long?

To ensure that we minimize risk associated with software and hardware failures, we follow a vendor recommended 4 step process that includes: backing up your hard drive, checking the drive for defects, defragmenting the data on the drive, and finally encrypting the drive.

Will anything function differently?

When you boot the system, you will notice a grey PGP Login Screen (shown above) where you will enter your strong password. Once you enter your password and you are authenticated to the machine, you will be automatically logged into the operating system.

Deleting files on your computer may take a small amount longer because the PGP software helps to ensure that the files are completed removed by wiping the hard drive space where the files were stored (commonly referred to as a scrubber or shredder).

PGP also gives the ability to create encrypted ZIP files.

If my hard drive is encrypted, will other people have to decrypt items that I send to them?

No. Your files will not be impacted as you transfer them in and out of Windows. The only time that encryption may become an issue is when you use PGP Zip files (as they are encrypted with the PGP software). Instructions are available at http://www.uab.edu/it/software/PGP.

What if I lend my laptop to someone?

That user must be added to the list of PGP user accounts. Also, the user must login through the PGP software while the machine is online so that their information may be properly stored & verified using the PGP key server.

My department has a shared laptop, how can everyone access it?

Each person who will need to use the machine will need an account within the PGP software.