MySQL and Encryptionizer for Data Encryption

MySQL is a popular open-source relational database management system that allows users to store and manage data. It serves the same purpose as many other databases, including Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL. Oracle purchased MySQL in 2010, and continues to allow use of the MySQL Community Edition at no cost, supported by the open source community. Other editions of MySQL, such as Standard and MySQL Enterprise, support more complex functionality and can be purchased from Oracle.

Since version 5.7, MySQL has included support in some form for encryption of data-at-rest, which means that data stored in the database can be encrypted on disk to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. MySQL provides several encryption options, such as encryption of individual columns or full database encryption.

Encryptionizer is a patented, powerful software solution platform developed by NetLib Security that provides database-level encryption for all popular relational database management systems, including MySQL. Not only does Encryptionizer encrypt data-at-rest, but it also provides centralized encryption key management and access control features to ensure that only authorized users have access to the encrypted data.

So, while both MySQL’s native encryption functions and Encryptionizer can be used to secure data, they approach the problem of encryption from different perspectives.

Does MySQL with Encryptionizer make sense?

Although it may seem redundant to use Encryptionizer with MySQL, there are pressing reasons someone using MySQL should implement their security protocols with Encryptionizer. These reasons include but are not limited to:

Enhanced Security

While MySQL provides some built-in encryption capabilities, Encryptionizer can provide additional layers of security outside of the MySQL engine. For instance, Encryptionizer can encrypt the Innodb System Tablespace — not just user level databases. System Tablespaces can contain sensitive data, schema, and other proprietary information. This is true for all versions and editions of MySQL, including MySQL Enterprise.

Database Backups

Encryptionizer provides the ability to encrypt backups produced by any version of MySQL, including MySQL Standard and MySQL Community Edition which do not support encrypted backups. By encrypting backups, your data can remain secure even if data is taken offsite. As a matter of fact, Encryptionizer can encrypt any file produced by MySQL.

Additional Key Management Features

Encryptionizer includes key management features that can help ensure secure key storage, rotation, and distribution. These features may be particularly useful if you have specific security requirements or compliance obligations.

Flexibility and Customization

Encryptionizer provides more flexibility and customization options for data encryption than MySQL, allowing you to tailor encryption settings to meet your specific needs. It also supports legacy databases which can be challenging. We’ll talk more about this in the next section.

Compliance Requirements

Encryptionizer can help organizations comply with regulatory requirements that mandate the use of encryption. For example, the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requires the encryption of credit card information, and Encryptionizer can help organizations meet these requirements.

Ease of Use

Encryptionizer is designed to be easy to use, with a simple installation process and a user-friendly interface. This can be especially beneficial for organizations that do not have dedicated IT staff or security experts.

Cross-Database Support

Encryptionizer supports not only MySQL but also Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, and other databases, which can be beneficial for organizations that use multiple database management systems. This allows for a consistent approach to encryption across different platforms.

Legacy MySQL Support

MySQL provides encryption capabilities for their databases, but this feature was not always available in the software. MySQL has supported encryption of data at rest since version 5.7, which was released in 2015. Even in 5.7, the security options were not particularly robust. Improvements were made in MySQL 8.0 and in the Enterprise edition of MySQL. If you are using an older version of MySQL, you may need to upgrade to take advantage of the built-in encryption capabilities. This could be a very expensive proposition.

If you find that you cannot upgrade your version of MySQL in order to take advantage of native encryption, you should consider other security solutions.

Encryptionizer is a strong option for encrypting legacy MySQL databases that cannot be easily upgraded or migrated to other databases. It is also beneficial if you are dealing with several database management systems, as it has the capability to manage multiple databases.

As with any product, it’s important to note that the suitability of Encryptionizer as an encryption solution for your specific needs will depend on a number of factors, including your organization’s specific security requirements and compliance obligations. Make sure you carefully evaluate any encryption solution before implementing it, and think about consulting with a security expert if you have concerns or questions.

Encryption of data-at-rest should be an important part of your data security policy. However, it is not the only component. You should also consider other security measures such as limiting access control, tightening network security, and performing regular security audits to ensure the safety of your data. We recommend building a defense strategy for your business.

Conclusion:

MySQL is a database management system, designed to store, organize, and retrieve data, and it includes some built-in encryption capabilities. Encryptionizer, on the other hand, is a third-party encryption tool designed to provide enhanced encryption capabilities for MySQL and other database management systems.

If you need additional encryption capabilities beyond what MySQL Standard or Community Editions provides, such as backup encryption and enhanced key management features, then Encryptionizer may be a good choice.

About NetLib Security

NetLib Security has spent the past 20+ years developing a powerful, patented solution that starts by setting up a formidable offense for every environment where your data resides: physical, virtual and cloud. Our platform simplifies the process while ensuring high levels of security.

Simplify your data security needs. Encryptionizer is easy to deploy. It is a cost-effective way to proactively and transparently protect your sensitive data that allows you to quickly and confidently meet your security requirements. With budget considerations in mind, we have designed an affordable data security platform that protects, manages, and defends your data, while responding to the ever changing compliance requirements.

Data breaches are expensive. Security does not have to be.

NetLib Security works with government agencies, healthcare organizations, small to large enterprises, financial services, credit card processors, distributors, and resellers to provide a flexible data security solution that meets their evolving needs. To learn more or request a free evaluation visit us at www.netlibsecurity.com.

MySQL is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation