Which technique encrypts the full contents of a disk?

Which technique encrypts the full contents of a disk?

• A. File-Level Encryption
• B. Column-Level Database Encryption
• C. Encryption At Rest
• D. Disk Encryption

Answer: (D)

This question tests understanding of the scope of encryption techniques. Disk encryption is the method that covers the entire disk content, encrypting every sector on the drive, including system files, temporary files, and data in use. It’s typically implemented as full-disk or whole-disk encryption and often uses pre-boot authentication to unlock the drive. Because it protects everything stored on the disk, it provides complete coverage of the device’s data regardless of file type or location. File-level encryption protects individual files one by one, so other data on the disk remains unencrypted. Column-level database encryption targets specific data fields within a database, not the whole disk. Encryption at rest describes the state of data being encrypted when stored, but it doesn’t specify the mechanism or scope used to achieve that protection. Therefore, disk encryption is the technique that encrypts the full contents of a disk.

This question tests understanding of the scope of encryption techniques. Disk encryption is the method that covers the entire disk content, encrypting every sector on the drive, including system files, temporary files, and data in use. It’s typically implemented as full-disk or whole-disk encryption and often uses pre-boot authentication to unlock the drive. Because it protects everything stored on the disk, it provides complete coverage of the device’s data regardless of file type or location.

File-level encryption protects individual files one by one, so other data on the disk remains unencrypted. Column-level database encryption targets specific data fields within a database, not the whole disk. Encryption at rest describes the state of data being encrypted when stored, but it doesn’t specify the mechanism or scope used to achieve that protection. Therefore, disk encryption is the technique that encrypts the full contents of a disk.