Software Gadgets

I remember getting excited about encrypting things was PGP first came out for DOS. Unfortunately, most early (and current, for that matter) programs aren't really designed for easy of use, so my excitement quickly faded -- and the best encryptation in the world isn't any good if you don't use it. ClipSecure is a simple text encryption utility that operates via the Windows clipboard, and therefore can be used within almost any program that allows you to copy and paste text.

From the ClipSecure web site:

ClipSecure is a simple, secure, freeware text encryption utility that operates with the Windows clipboard, and therefore can be used within any text-based program and most email clients. It uses many industry-accepted algorithms, including the AES (Rijndael) standard, to provide maximum security. Encrypt and decrypt text with one keystroke, or manually control every step of the process. File encryption is also supported.

ClipSecure was designed to be a small, fast, easy-to-use security solution for those (like me) who prefer to avoid the size and complexity of programs like PGP, and yet still have industry-strength encryption.

Clipsecure has a large number of feature hidden behind a simple interface:

* works with just about any application or source window that can process the standard windows clipboard shortcuts of CTRL-A (select all), CTRL-C (copy to clipboard), CTRL-V (paste from clipboard)
* compression prior to encryption
* choose hashing mode from: MD5, RipeMD, SHA1, SHA256, SHA512, Tiger
*choose chaining mode from: CBC, CFB8bit, CFBblock, OFB, CTR
*choose algorithm from: Blowfish, Cast256, MARS, RC6, AES (Rijndael), Serpent, Twofish, IDEA, 3DES
* configurable one-hotkey encryption and decryption, or control every step manually
*send decrypted text to source window, internal viewer, or program of your choice
* encrypts/decrypts plain or rich text
* file mode with secure file wiping for internal processes
* password manager (encrypted to file) for one-click password selection and individual cipher settings
* retain a session password
* 'hardcore mode' second-pass encryption
* user-specified config file -- registry not used
* command-line options for silent, traceless operation

While ClipSecure is not the most powerful encryptation software out there, it is easy to use and functional. Two features that are more important to the average person than raw power.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Only Interface and Usability rated)
Operating System: Windows
License: Commercial Freeware
Price: Free
Version Reviewed: 1.2
Web Site: http://www26.brinkster.com/belzecue/clipsecure.htm
See Screenshots