Content

SafeNet ProtectDrive

SafeNet ProtectDrive offers a full, integrated set of encryption features to protect data across the enterprise. With this solution, administrators can configure various encryption and management policies to be deployed throughout the Active Directory (AD) domain, and users can easily encrypt and decrypt files and folders.
Installation is comprised of two parts. The first is setting up and configuring the server and management tools. The server install uses AD Application Mode to connect to the domain and manage policy. Once the server is installed, all management is done through a Microsoft Management Console snap-in, so Windows administrators feel right at home navigating the interface and setting up policy. The second part of installation is deploying the client-side application. We found this part of the process a little confusing at first, and the documentation is not very clear on what needs to be done. After the client application is deployed and the user has been assigned to a policy, the product is up and running.

Policy easily can be configured from the management console and includes many functions. Administrators can not only set encryption policies, but also additional options, such as certificate use, default permissions for device access, user lockout and user interface options.

Documentation included two PDF manuals. The first is the administrator guide, which details installation, setup and configuration from the server and administrative side. The second is the user guide, which illustrates how users can get the most out of the features and functions. Both guides are well-organized and include a good many screen shots and step-by-step examples.

SafeNet offers fee-based support options only. The two levels include the extended service plan and a plus-service plan.

At about $53 per seat, we find this to be a good value. ProtectDrive offers a fairly comprehensive encryption feature set with many additional options at a very reasonable price for almost any size organization.
Product title
SafeNet ProtectDrive
Product info
Name: ProtectDrive Description: Full encryption functionality with native multifactor authentication integration. Price: $53.00 per seat/user
Strength
Full encryption functionality with native multifactor authentication integration.
Weakness
Deployment of client side could be a little more intuitive.
Verdict
Solid encryption utility that can be a bit challenging to deploy.

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