When it comes to the security of confidential information, the internet can be a very non-secure place. However, there are various methods to protect the integrity of documents online, such as password protection and encryption. But which one is better for you? This article will detail the similarities and differences between both methods in relation to information security.
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What is Password Protection?
Password protection is a security process that protects your computer from unauthorized access via authentication and verification processing. In simple words, your online information is protected using a unique password – only an authorized user with the correct password can view the content. 
Why is Password Protection Important
Passwords act as the first line of defence against hackers. If an unauthorized user attempts to compromise your account and steal personal information, rather than have open access to do so, they will need to know your unique password. Therefore, creating a strong password is very important to prevent data theft.
But how does password protection differ from encryption? Is one better than the other?
What is Data Encryption
In the event that a cyber attacker intercepts your email correspondence or hacks into your work account, they’re going to be disappointed if you’ve encrypted your data. Data encryption essentially renders the information in your documents useless to anyone other than the authorized user. It works by translating data from plaintext (readable) to ciphertext (unreadable).
Ciphertext is made up of randomized letters, symbols, and numbers and can only be deciphered with an encryption key.
Why is Data Encryption Important
For companies that deal with sensitive client information, encrypting data should be a top priority. Encryption protects data in transit, at rest and end-to-end, so as the information travels between networks and systems, it remains secure.
The Key Difference
Data encryption not only prevents cyberattackers from accessing your confidential information, but it goes a step further than password protection. As discussed, passwords act as the first line of defence against outsider threats. However, if you have a weak password and someone guesses it correctly or hacks it, they now have access to all of your account information and data. What data encryption does is make your data unreadable so in the event that your password is compromised, your sensitive information remains untouched.
How to Encrypt Data
Many companies use data encryption software to protect their sensitive documentation. For professionals that constantly send and receive confidential information online, many use TitanFile for a secure and efficient file-sharing experience.
Rather than figure out how to manually encrypt individual files, TitanFile automatically encrypts files the moment they are uploaded to your secure workspace. Files remain encrypted in transit, at rest, and end-to-end for optimal protection.
Interested in using secure file-sharing software? TitanFile is currently offering a free 15-day trial of the platform for you to experience seamless and secure file sharing. Follow this link, to sign up.