Securing/Encrypting embedded database in Delphi

Question

Which method do you suggest to efficiently secure your embedded database in Delphi applications?

Here are the methods I've tested:

1. Using Molebox Pro

   • Pros - Fast, unpacking is not child's play, no additional task/coding
   • Cons - Database will be read-only, same drawbacks as exe compressors

2. Using DISQLite3

   • Pros - Overcome Molebox's read-only issue
   • Cons - 50% or more performance fall on encrypting

So I'd like to know if you have used anything like this in your projects and if you satisfied with speed and encryption etc. Please share your techniques.

Answer 1

The fact that Molebox Pro leaves your DB read-only while DISQLite3 does not seems to be the deciding factor. Likewise if the performance penalty on encrypting is the only con for DISQLite3, then it is irrelevant since Molebox Pro is read-only (thus no encrypting during operation). It really comes down to your requirements.

If you are looking for other options then I would suggest checking out ElevateDB or DBISAM from ElevateSoft. They are both embedded databases with built in encryption. I've used DBISAM, but ElevateDB is their newer and preferred database. Also check out Advantage DB from Sybase, which is less embedded but also has encryption.

If you have other requirements that may impact your choice let me know!