Workstation Hard Disk Encryption

Workstation hard drive encryption policies require all connected storage to be encrypted so that data cannot be accessed from a computer without the proper keys or user authentication. Encryption policies apply to both Windows and Mac computers and are managed by ITS.

Looking for help with a locked computer or encrypting an external/USB drive?
See Disk Encyption Help

Due to the nature of our work at Cal Poly, university-owned computers may have access to sensitive data dependent on a user’s role.
It is the responsibility of Cal Poly to safeguard any data that is accessed and stored locally on all computers and protect that data from misuse.

What is encryption?

Encryption is the process of converting or scrambling data and information into an unreadable, encoded version that can only be read with authorized access. Encryption is a widely used security tool that can prevent the interception of sensitive data, either while stored in files or while in transit across networks.

How is encryption enforced?

Encryption on Cal Poly devices is performed using native tools for each major operating system:

FileVault for MacOS and
BitLocker for Windows.

Each technology is managed by different external tools and controlled by ITS.

How is encryption managed locally?

Once a device is encrypted, it requires either an authenticated login or a recovery key. When a device is initially encrypted, a recovery key is created and saved to the management server.

Windows Encryption Resources

MacOS Encryption Resources