The Importance of Page File Encryption

The Page File constitutes an important topic in data security due to its use to store cryptographic keys, passwords or other information, in a system location that is easily accessible by hackers.

The page file is a file that is used solely by the operating system. The function is to virtually increase the amount of space in the memory (RAM). By writing pieces of memory content (memory pages) that are not immediately needed to the hard disk, it frees up space in the main memory.

The page file works in a similar manner to that of a notepad for humans. You write down your temporary notes in this notepad and can forget about them until you need to refer to them again (or until you process the notes into your administration, then you can scrap the pages). The only thing that you need to remember is where to find them in your notepad. It is obvious that the notebook becomes an important source of information for those who want to know what kept you busy today.

The page file can contain pieces of software, screens, retrieved records from a database, documents, pictures, anything that your computer processed. This will often include passwords used for websites, PIN codes for electronic banking and other sensitive information like decrypted content of encrypted files and documents.

The common size of a page file is at least a few hundred megabytes. It is only used by the Windows operating system and exists not only when the system is running but also when it is powered off.

Minimal protection is provided to the page file system by the operating system which enables it to be analyzed using common tools.

Sophisticated hacking skills are not necessary to access the Page File content, placing considerable risk to a lost or stolen computer as the Page File is often second in line to be attacked after the user files

The Page File weakness

It‘s clear now that the page file is a weakness.
But what can you do to guard against it?

ProtectFile can encrypt the full contents of the page file ensuring the ultimate protection no matter if the device is powered on or off. This ensures each memory page written to disk is non-readable in clear text to all parties, except the paging process of the original computer.

A hacker using generic hacking tools to access the page file content will now only see encrypted data of no legitimate use. This important security functionality provided by ProtectFile protects your sensitive information on stolen and misplaced laptops and desktops, returned hardware after a rental period or systems that are sold or discarded.

In all cases the Page File is strongly encrypted and not readable for unauthorized people