In the realm of Salesforce, where vast amounts of sensitive data are managed daily, encryption stands as a pivotal pillar of security. To explore the nuances between Salesforce’s Classic and Shield Platform encryption, I sat down with Evelyn Harper, a seasoned Salesforce consultant who has guided numerous companies through the intricacies of data protection.
Evelyn’s journey with Salesforce encryption began over a decade ago, witnessing firsthand the evolution of data security needs. As she recounts her experiences, it becomes evident that understanding and implementing the right encryption strategy is not just about compliance but about building trust and resilience.
The Simplicity of Classic Encryption
“We often start with Classic encryption,” Evelyn notes, a twinkle of nostalgia in her eye. “It’s straightforward and accessible. Classic encryption is part of the base Salesforce license, which makes it an attractive option for businesses just beginning their journey into data security.”
Classic encryption, as Evelyn explains, allows users to encrypt or mask specific data fields, such as Personally Identifiable Information (PII), with ease. This capability ensures that only authorised users with the ‘View Encrypted Data’ permission can access sensitive information. “It’s a simple solution, perfect for companies that need to protect a limited number of fields without diving too deeply into complex configurations,” she elaborates.
However, Evelyn is quick to highlight the limitations. “Classic encryption can only encrypt up to 175 characters and doesn’t support standard fields or existing data. It’s a great starting point, but not sufficient for organisations with more robust security needs.”
The Robustness of Shield Platform
As we shift the conversation to Shield Platform encryption, Evelyn’s tone shifts to one of admiration for its comprehensive capabilities. “Shield Platform takes encryption to a whole new level,” she says. “It’s designed for enterprises that require top-tier security and compliance.”
Shield Platform offers AES-256 encryption, a significant step up from the AES-128 used in Classic encryption. It also supports Bring-Your-Own-Key (BYOK) management, allowing businesses to use their own encryption keys, adding an extra layer of security and control.
“Shield Platform can encrypt both standard and custom fields, attachments, and even platform events,” Evelyn explains. “For industries like healthcare and finance, where compliance is non-negotiable, Shield Platform is often not just a preference but a necessity.”
Despite its strengths, Evelyn acknowledges some challenges. “It’s more expensive, requiring an additional cost on top of the Salesforce license. Plus, the setup can be daunting for those unfamiliar with complex security configurations.”
Choosing the Right Path
When asked how companies should choose between Classic and Shield Platform, Evelyn advises a thorough assessment of their security needs and compliance requirements. “It’s not just about the present; it’s about anticipating future needs,” she states. “For smaller companies or those with minimal sensitive data, Classic might be enough. But for those in regulated industries, Shield Platform is the way to go.”
Evelyn also recommends leveraging Salesforce’s sandbox environments to test encryption strategies before full implementation. “Testing is crucial,” she emphasises. “It helps identify potential issues with data compatibility and ensures a seamless transition.”
A Holistic Approach to Data Security
Our conversation rounds off with a broader discussion on the importance of integrating encryption with other security measures. Evelyn stresses that encryption should be part of a holistic data security strategy that includes regular audits, robust backup solutions, and stringent access controls.
“Encryption is just one piece of the puzzle,” she concludes. “It’s about creating a secure environment where data can thrive without fear of breaches. And in this dynamic digital age, that security is priceless.”
As I thank Evelyn for her insights, I’m left with a deeper appreciation for the complexities and critical importance of data encryption in Salesforce. Her journey through Classic and Shield Platform underscores the need for businesses to not only protect their data but to do so with foresight and precision.
By Koda Siebert