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AES-256-GCM Encryptor

Client side aes encryption tool. Encrypt text or files using AES-256-GCM with PBKDF2 key derivation. Your data stays in your browser.

Your inputs remain on your device.

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Your password stays in your browser.

Your inputs remain on your device.

What is AES-256-GCM?

AES-256-GCM (Advanced Encryption Standard with 256-bit key in Galois/Counter Mode) is an authenticated encryption algorithm that provides both confidentiality and integrity protection. It is widely regarded as one of the most secure encryption methods available today and is approved by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) for protecting classified information up to the Top Secret level.

How It Works

  1. Key Derivation (PBKDF2): Your password is transformed into a 256-bit encryption key using PBKDF2 (Password-Based Key Derivation Function 2) with 100,000 iterations of HMAC-SHA256. This makes brute-force attacks computationally expensive.
  2. Random Salt: A unique 16-byte salt is generated for each encryption operation, ensuring that encrypting the same data twice produces different ciphertexts.
  3. Initialization Vector (IV): A 12-byte nonce (IV) is used to ensure that identical plaintext blocks encrypt to different ciphertext blocks.
  4. Authenticated Encryption: GCM mode encrypts the data while simultaneously computing an authentication tag (128-bit) that detects any tampering with the ciphertext.

Technical Specifications

Encryption

  • Algorithm: AES-256-GCM
  • Key Size: 256 bits
  • IV Size: 96 bits (12 bytes)
  • Auth Tag: 128 bits

Key Derivation

  • KDF: PBKDF2-HMAC-SHA256
  • Iterations: 100,000
  • Salt Size: 128 bits
  • Output: 256-bit key

Common Use Cases

1

Secure File Sharing

Encrypt sensitive documents before sending via email or cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive.

2

Backup Protection

Protect personal documents, financial records, and private photos stored on USB drives or external hard drives.

3

Password & Secret Storage

Securely store master passwords, recovery codes, API keys, and other sensitive credentials in encrypted form.

4

Private Communication

Encrypt private messages, diary entries, or personal notes that you want to keep confidential.

5

Configuration File Security

Encrypt configuration files containing database credentials, API endpoints, or other sensitive deployment information.

6

Compliance & Data Protection

Meet GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, and other regulatory requirements for data encryption and privacy protection.

Security Considerations

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Password Strength is Critical

The security of your encrypted data depends entirely on your password. Use a strong, unique password with at least 16 characters including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Consider using our Password Generator.

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Password Recovery is Impossible

There is no 'backdoor' or password reset mechanism. If you lose your password, your encrypted data cannot be recovered by anyone—not even us. Store your password securely in a password manager.

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Zero-Knowledge Architecture

All encryption and decryption operations happen locally in your browser. Your data and password stay on your device. This tool works offline after the page loads.

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Verify Before Deleting Originals

Always verify that you can successfully decrypt your data before deleting the original files. Test the decryption process with a copy first.

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Browser Security

Ensure you are using an up-to-date browser and HTTPS connection. Avoid using this tool on public or shared computers where malware or keyloggers might be present.

Related Security Tools

References & Standards

Your inputs remain on your device.