AES Encryption/Decryption Tool
Overview
The AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) Encryption/Decryption Tool provides secure symmetric encryption and decryption capabilities. It supports multiple key sizes (128, 192, 256 bits) and encryption modes (CBC, GCM, CTR) to meet various security requirements.
Features
- Multiple Key Sizes: Support for AES-128, AES-192, and AES-256
- Encryption Modes: CBC, GCM, and CTR modes for different use cases
- Flexible Input: Support for text input and various key formats
- Key Management: Generate secure random keys and initialization vectors
- Output Formats: Choose between hexadecimal and Base64 output
- GCM Authentication: Built-in authentication with GCM mode
- Real-time Processing: Instant encryption/decryption as you type
- History Tracking: Keep track of recent operations
Encryption Modes
CBC (Cipher Block Chaining)
- Most commonly used block cipher mode
- Requires an Initialization Vector (IV)
- Provides good security for most applications
- Sequential processing
GCM (Galois/Counter Mode)
- Modern authenticated encryption mode
- Provides both encryption and authentication
- Uses a nonce instead of IV
- Supports additional authenticated data (AAD)
- Recommended for new applications
CTR (Counter Mode)
- Converts block cipher into stream cipher
- Supports parallel processing
- Good performance characteristics
- Requires proper nonce/counter management
Security Features
- Industry Standard: Implements NIST-approved AES algorithm
- Key Security: Secure key generation and handling
- IV/Nonce Management: Proper initialization vector generation
- Authentication: GCM mode provides built-in authentication
- Security Recommendations: Built-in security best practices guidance
Use Cases
- Data Protection: Encrypt sensitive data for storage or transmission
- File Encryption: Secure files and documents
- Communication Security: Secure messaging and data exchange
- Database Encryption: Encrypt sensitive database fields
- Backup Security: Secure backup files and archives
Best Practices
- Use AES-256 with GCM mode for maximum security
- Generate unique IVs/nonces for each encryption operation
- Use cryptographically secure random number generators for keys
- Properly manage and store encryption keys
- Implement proper key rotation policies