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Home / Glossary / GPG
Glossary · Security

GPG

Gnu Privacy Guard

In plain language

Free software that scrambles and signs files and email so only the intended person can read and trust them.

The metaphor

Like a mailbox with a slot anyone can drop letters into and a key only the owner holds.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Each person has a public key to share and a private key to keep.
  • Anyone can encrypt a message with the public key.
  • Only the private key opens it.
  • Also signs software downloads so you know they are genuine.
In practice
  • A developer signs a software release.
  • Two partners exchange files that only they can read.
  • A download page lists a signature to check.

A question owners ask

Do I need it?

Most offices use the encryption built into their email platform. This is for technical teams and special needs.

Related terms
AAAAuthentication, Authorization, and AccountingAccount takeoverACLAccess Control ListAdmin accountAESAdvanced Encryption StandardAES-256Advanced Encryption Standards 256-bitAISAutomated Indicator SharingAPTAdvanced Persistent Threat

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