Can I Encrypt/Sign Files directly in my application (for example, MS Word)?

No.  You must encrypt/sign files in the FileAssurity application. 
Once files are protected you can send them using any mail or IM (Instant Messaging) application.


Is FileAssurity a proprietary PKI application or does it work with any PKI provider?

FileAssurity works with any PKI provider that supplies it's certificates in the following formats - PKCS#7, .P7B, .CER, .P12, .PFX, X.509.  The majority of CAs offer .P12 format - Verisign, DST, Microsoft, etc.

In addition, just like PGP, FileAssurity lets you generate your own keys.


How does FileAssuritys protection of ZIP files differ from WinZIP?

WinZIP files are password protected but don't using strong encryption. This means files are more easily open to attack because the protection mechanism can be easily broken.  In fact, you can download programs off the Internet that specifically perform this task.  

The following is an extract from WinZIPs manual:
"Password protecting files in a Zip file provides a measure of protection against casual users who don't have the password and are trying to determine the contents of your files. The Zip 2.0 encryption format, however, is not as secure as DES and the RSA public key formats used by programs such as PGP, and does not provide absolute protection against determined individuals with advanced cryptographic tools. If you require strong encryption, we recommend you use a specialized encryption software instead of the Zip 2.0 encryption format. Copyright © 1991-2000 by WinZip Computing, Inc.  All rights reserved."

FileAssurity is a specialized encryption software application using a high-strength industry standard algorithm that ensures your files are securely protected. In addition, FileAssurity archives and files can be signed to prevent against tampering of the files and so that the receiver can verify who sent them.


Does the person I am sending protected files/archives to have to be running the same version of Windows?

No.  It does not matter what version of Windows the sender or recipient are running - they do not have to be the same.  For example, the sender could be running Windows 98 and the recipient Windows NT.


Does the person I am sending protected files/archives to have to have a full copy of FileAssurity installed on their PC?

No.  FileAssurity Reader decrypts and verifies all files for which the user has keys.  Anyone can download FileAssurity Reader and use it without charge.  They are not able to encrypt and sign files with this version of the product.


How does the digital signature and document authorization process work?

See FileAssurity Digital Signature FAQs