Data encryption and Ubuntu, Part I

“It is going to be a bit of a journey, so let’s start with the
Private directory on Ubuntu.

“Firstly, a bit of background. The last few versions of Ubuntu
have included a way of encrypting the entire Home directory, which
is similar to Microsoft’s C:Documents and Settings in Windows XP or
C:Users in Windows Vista. All user related files and setings are
kept in Linux’s Home directory.

“However, the only way to take advantge of encrypting the Home
directory was to install Ubuntu using the Alternate Install CD, as
opposed to the regular LiveCD. The Alternate Installer is a text
based installer, rather than a grapical installer and therefore a
bit off-putting to many people. Apart from that, it doesn’t get a
lot of press coverage and many people don’t know about it.”

Complete
Story