Database Encryption

This topic is only applicable to on-premises installations.

Database encryption uses an algorithm to transform data stored in a database into cipher text that is incomprehensible without decryption. Database encryption protects information stored in a database from being accessed by individuals with potentially malicious intentions.

Encrypt the database using 1 of the following methods:

• Microsoft Encrypting File System (EFS)
• Transparent Data Encryption (TDE)

The additional overhead of encrypting the database causes a 5% - 30% loss of Archer performance. Generally, the overhead associated with TDE is less than with EFS. Upgrade to processors with higher clock speeds, more cores, and sufficiently fast disks.