Understanding backup encryption

Applies to: VisualSVN Server 3.8 and later

The Backup and Restore feature supports backup encryption starting with VisualSVN Server 3.8. The encryption is available both for one-time backups and for background backup jobs.

VisualSVN Server uses industry-standard AES-128 or AES-256 encryption algorithms to protect the backups. Both of them provide a strong level of security. Select the particular encryption algorithm according to the recommendations and security policy in your organization.

We recommend to enable encryption in all cases and especially when the backups are stored in the cloud, on an off-site network share or on a removable media. The encryption prevents unauthorized access to the data.

Note
Remember to protect the encryption password against being lost or forgotten. VisualSVN Server does not feature any means of the emergency password recovery, and it would be impossible to restore an encrypted backup in such case.

Choosing a secure password to encrypt the backups

Although the encryption uses strong AES-128 or AES-256 algorithms, the security of your data also depends on the strength of your password. The general recommendations are as follows:

  • Use a long password (14 characters or more).
  • Use lowercase and uppercase letters, digits and special characters.
  • Use randomly generated password if possible.
Note
The encryption password can contain only printable ASCII characters.

Read the Password strength Wikipedia article to learn more about the common guidelines for choosing a secure password.

See also

KB106: Getting started with Backup and Restore
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