Full Encryption Authentication Types

Applies To: WatchGuard Full Encryption

WatchGuard Full Encryption supports various methods to authenticate encrypted disks. The operating system version and the presence of a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip determine the type of authentication to use.

Full Encryption groups computer authentication methods as:

  • Unknown — Full Encryption does not support the selected authentication method.
  • Security Processor (TPM) — Compatible with all supported versions of Microsoft Windows. The TPM chip must be enabled in the BIOS, except in Windows 10, where it is automatically enabled.
  • Security Processor (TPM) and Password — While booting, the computer uses a TPM and PIN or password for authentication. The TPM chip must be enabled in the BIOS, and a PIN must be established.
  • Password — While booting, the computer requests a PIN or password for authentication. Only available on Windows 8 computers and higher without a TPM chip.
  • USB Drive — While booting, the computer uses a USB key for authentication. Required on Windows 7 computers without a TPM chip.
  • Unencrypted — The computer has no encrypted disks.

By default, Full Encryption uses an authentication method that includes the use of a TPM chip, if available.

View Authentication Methods Applied

You can view the authentication methods used on computers in the Authentication Method Applied tile.

To view the Authentication Method Applied tile:

  1. In WatchGuard Cloud, select Monitor > Endpoints.
  2. Select Status > Full Encryption.
    The Full Encryption dashboard opens and includes the Authentication Method Applied tile.

    Screenshot of the Full Encryption dashboard

  3. In the Authentication Method Applied tile, click an authentication method.
    The Encryption Status page opens, filtered for the selected authentication method.

    Screenshot of the Authentication Method Applied 

    To view the authentication method used on an individual disk:

  4. In the Computer column, click a computer.
    The Computers page opens.
  5. Click the Details section.
  6. In the Data Protection section, next to Hard Disk Encryption, click More Information.

    Screenshot of the Data Protection page
    The Encryption Status dialog box opens and shows the authentication methods used on the encrypted disks.

    Screenshot of the Encryption Status

Related Topics

About Full Encryption

About Trusted Platform Module Technology

Full Encryption Dashboard