The best way to protect computerized information from the bad guys is to use encryption. Whether it's financial and medical information stored on your computer or private data sent across the Internet in an e-mail, encryption transforms your personal information into a secret code that can only be unlocked if you have the key.

Don't be put off by any of the unfamiliar terminology that may be involved. Using encryption does not require a degree from James Bond University or permission from the CIA. Many modern encryption products are so easy to use that, yes, even cave dwellers can use them.

When securing your data, there are two main areas where encryption should be used, known as "data at rest" and "data in motion." "Data at rest" is information that is simply being stored on hard drives, flash drives, etc. "Data in motion" is information that is in transit between devices, such as across a network or the Internet.

There are many good products that will encrypt data at rest and most of them work around the same set of principals, which are similar to installing a wall safe in your home. The first step is to create an encrypted folder or "container;" this is your safe. Next, you assign the folder a password or "encryption key;" this is the combination to your safe. Finally, you put items that you want to protect into your safe, i.e., your encrypted folder. From then on, anyone that wants to access those files that you have protected will have to know your special encryption key, which, of course, you will keep secret. It really is that simple.

One product that I like for data at rest is called Cryptainer LE, which can be found at cypherix.com/cryptainerle. Cryptainer LE, perfect for home users, is the free version of Cypherix's more industrial-strength encryption products and is easy-as-pie to use. Like most encryption products, Cryptainer LE also will let you protect files on removable flash drives, portable hard drives and even CDs. Those in business settings will probably want to opt for Cypherix's more powerful products which, starting at $30, are a bargain.

Data in motion needs attention too, specifically, e-mail. Global security company Comodo offers a wonderful (and free) way of encrypting e-mail with a product called Comodo SecureEmail. SecureEmail is easy to install and, once configured, provides transparent and automatic e-mail security. The product is designed to work with dedicated e-mail programs such as Outlook, Outlook Express, Thunderbird, etc. Folks who want to use SecureEmail, but are used to visiting a Web site and using Webmail will have to start using a "real" e-mail program. However, they should have been doing that all along. Webmail is for Internet beginners that don't know any better. Making the transition to a real e-mail program is easy and the rewards can be great.

People who want top-level security and don't mind spending a little money should look at PGP Desktop Home, which can be found at pgp.com/products/desktop_home. PGP is one of the top encryption companies in the world and their products combine ease of use with the best protection available. PGP Desktop Home will encrypt data at rest in all of its forms, as well as e-mail and AOL Instant Messenger sessions. Available for Windows or Apple Macintosh computers, a perpetual lifetime license for PGP Desktop Home costs $99; that is a very good price for a product of this caliber.

So, there you have it. You now have no excuse for not using encryption. Home users will want to protect their important QuickBooks and TurboTax files, as well as financial and medical information. Many businesses, such as those in the legal, financial and healthcare industries are now required by law to use due diligence in protecting sensitive personal and private information; encryption is how it's done.