Encryption - Operating System

[Falcon Speed]

First, what software would you recommend?

Second, do one encrypt the drive first and then install the OS or install the OS first and then encrypt the drive/partition. I believe Truecrypt requires you to install the OS first. Is there such a software that encrypt the drive first and then install the OS. Advantages/Disadvantages?

Thanks

[Midknyte]

Truecrypt is probably the best of the freebies.

Why would you encrypt a blank drive? There's nothing to encrypt! Even if you could do that, you would slow down the installation of the OS.

[Falcon Speed]

Truecrypt is probably the best of the freebies.

Why would you encrypt a blank drive? There's nothing to encrypt! Even if you could do that, you would slow down the installation of the OS.

Because I don't know what the heck I was talking about and that is why I was asking.

So, usually you would install the OS first and encrypt it afterward?

[Midknyte]

So, usually you would install the OS first and encrypt it afterward?

Yes. You would apply the encryption hash to your data, not to an empty space.

Are you sure you need full system encryption? You could just encrypt individual data files with something like 7-zip.

If you use TrueCrypt, make sure to create the rescue disc as well.

[Falcon Speed]

I have used Truecrypt for years now and use it both as a file container and volume container. I was just curious how the OS gets encrypted in the case if my laptop was to get stolen. My data is very protected just moving to the OS protection level now.