128-bit Encryption

What is 128-bit encryption and why do I need it?

Encryption is a method of scrambling messages that travel over the Internet so that others cannot read them. Encrypted messages can only be read with a decryption key. If you were sending information you wanted to keep secure to Strategis, for example, you would scramble, or encrypt, it using the settings in your browser. Strategis would then unscramble, or decrypt, it using "keys."

There are currently two levels of encryption available: 40-bit encryption and 128-bit encryption. Although most browsers support 40-bit encryption, the 128-bit encryption browsers provide a significantly higher level of security. To ensure the highest level of protection for clients, Strategis will be upgrading its security requirements for certain areas of the site (particularly those where electronic payment options are provided). To have access to these areas, you will need to upgrade your browser to the 128-bit version.

Note: the procedures listed below may vary depending on the browser version and platform you are using.

How can I tell if I have the 40-bit or 128-bit encryption version of my browser?

Internet Explorer for Windows

  • Choose the Help menu and select About Internet Explorer.
  • Look for Cipher Strength under Version.
  • When it says "128-bit" you have 128-bit security. When it says "40-bit" you have 40-bit security and will need to upgrade your browser to use certain areas of Strategis.

Internet Explorer for Macintosh

  • Choose the Apple menu and select About Internet Explorer.
  • Click on "Support" and look for Encryption under the list of specifications.

Netscape Navigator or Communicator for Windows and Macintosh

  • Choose the Help menu and select About Navigator (or Communicator).
  • Look for the sentence "Contains encryption software from RSA Data Security, Inc."
  • When the next paragraph says "This version supports U.S. security…" you have 128-bit security. When it says "This version supports International security…" you have 40-bit security and will need to upgrade your browser to use certain areas of Strategis.

What are the system requirements for these programs?

Windows

  • Intel or compatible Pentium processor
  • Microsoft Windows 95, 98, 2000 or NT
  • 32 megabytes or more of RAM
  • 14 400 baud or faster modem
  • 56 megabytes disk space for the stand alone browser
  • 72 megabytes disk space for the standard installation
  • 98 megabytes disk space for the full installation

Macintosh

  • Motorola 68000 or faster processor
  • 12 megabytes or more of RAM
  • Mac OS System 7.1
  • 14 400 baud or faster modem
  • 56 megabytes disk space for the stand alone browser
  • 72 megabytes disk space for the standard installation
  • 98 megabytes disk space for the full installation

Where can I get the 128-bit versions?

Microsoft Internet Explorer for Windows

  • Go to the Microsoft site
  • Select a browser for your platform (e.g. Internet Explorer 5.0)
  • Follow the instructions provided to install the new browser
  • Microsoft Downloads

Microsoft Internet Explorer for Macintosh

  • Go to the Microsoft site
  • Under Product Name, choose Internet Explorer 5 Macintosh Edition
  • Under Operating System, select Macintosh and click on Find It
  • Follow the instructions provided to install the new browser
  • Microsoft Downloads

Netscape Navigator or Communicator

  • Go to the Netscape site
  • Select a browser version (e.g. Versions 4.6x)
  • Select a browser for your platform (e.g. 4.61 English)
  • Follow the instructions provided to install the new browser
  • Netscape Downloads