At Le Goût du Libre, we regularly support individuals, freelancers, and organizations in their transition to Debian or Ubuntu.
In this context, implementing full disk encryption with LUKS fits perfectly into a personal data protection plan compliant with Quebec’s Law 25.
One of the most important aspects of this migration is deploying full disk encryption that is truly controlled by the user.
This is where LUKS (Linux Unified Key Setup) stands out as a reference solution. It provides full control over encryption keys and data access, making it an essential tool for strengthening security and information governance.
In the world of disk encryption, BitLocker dominates on Windows, but its deep integration with the Microsoft ecosystem raises questions about digital sovereignty.
LUKS, on the other hand, follows a radically different philosophy: no dependency on a vendor, no automatic cloud backup, no hidden mechanisms.
And when we assist with a migration, we configure this encryption with you, explaining each step so that you remain fully in control of your data.
Contact us to discuss your needs.
Five key advantages of LUKS compared to BitLocker
1. No dependency on a vendor
LUKS does not rely on any external service. No Microsoft account, no opaque activation. You encrypt, you control.
2. No recovery key stored in the cloud
BitLocker often backs up the recovery key to a Microsoft account, sometimes without the user being fully aware of it.
With LUKS, nothing is transmitted. No possible leakage through a third party.
3. Open-source under a Free software license and fully auditable
The code is open, reviewed, and improved by the community.
At Le Goût du Libre, we always prioritize solutions whose transparency can be independently verified.
4. Compatible with the entire Linux ecosystem
Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, Proxmox… LUKS is a standard in any Linux distribution. BitLocker is not available for Windows Home Edition.
During our deployments, we integrate this encryption into custom installations tailored to your needs.
5. Advanced key management
LUKS supports multiple passphrases, keyfiles, and even advanced setups such as hardware-based two‑factor encryption.
We help you choose the strategy that best matches your comfort level and security requirements.
On Windows: VeraCrypt as a free and open alternative
For Windows users who want to move away from BitLocker without immediately migrating to Linux, VeraCrypt is a solid and proven open‑source alternative.
Less intuitive than BitLocker, yes, but far more transparent:
- No automatic cloud backup
- No dependency on a Microsoft account
- Open-source, auditable code
- Full disk encryption or encrypted containers
In some of our consulting engagements, VeraCrypt is used as a transitional or complementary solution, especially in hybrid Windows/Linux environments.
On macOS: FileVault, effective but proprietary
macOS uses FileVault 2, a full disk encryption system well integrated into the operating system.
However, its operation depends on Apple’s ecosystem, which requires a significant level of trust.
Can Apple provide the keys to authorities?
Apple states that it does not hold users’ decryption keys.
However, if you choose to store your recovery key in iCloud, Apple can be legally compelled to provide what it has access to.
And because the implementation is proprietary, it is impossible to independently verify the absence of hidden mechanisms.
During our consulting sessions, we explain these nuances to help you choose an encryption strategy that remains consistent across all your devices.
Why the “no cloud backup” approach remains the best
For beginners, the absence of an automatic backup may seem risky.
But this is precisely what guarantees total sovereignty over your data.
With LUKS or VeraCrypt, you are the sole holder of the key.
No vendor, no government, no third party can retrieve a key stored elsewhere, because it simply does not exist outside your control.
At Le Goût du Libre, we help you implement a secure key‑management strategy adapted to your experience level and security needs.
Need help migrating to Debian or Ubuntu with LUKS encryption?
We offer complete support: installation, configuration, encryption, documentation, data transfer, and training.
Our goal is simple: to make you autonomous while ensuring you never lose control of your information.
Contact us to discuss your project.
