Advanced Encryption Standard—the dominant symmetric encryption algorithm for protecting sensitive data.
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) is the symmetric encryption algorithm used worldwide to protect sensitive data. Adopted by the US government in 2001, AES has become the global standard. AES operates in 128, 192, or 256-bit key lengths—AES-256 is used for the most sensitive data. AES encrypts disk storage (BitLocker, FileVault), network traffic (within TLS), file encryption, and countless other applications. Properly implemented AES-256 is considered unbreakable by current technology.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
AES-256 is the gold standard for encryption. When evaluating security products or configuring encryption, look for AES-256. Lesser encryption strengths may be adequate for some purposes but AES-256 is best practice.