NSA Type 1 Encryption

What is NSA type 1 encryption?

NSA Type 1 Encryption refers to a class of cryptographic algorithms and implementations certified by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) for protecting classified national security information. This level of encryption is approved for Top Secret, Secret, or Confidential data when implemented in validated hardware and software. These protections are delivered through encrypted devices that meet strict NSA and Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS) requirements, including tamper resistance and controlled key management. At a foundational level, how encryption works in this context is no different than other strong cryptography — data is mathematically transformed to prevent unauthorized access — but the assurance, validation, and operational controls are significantly higher for NSA Type 1 Encryption.

What is a type 1 encrypted device? It’s a device purpose-built to handle sensitive or classified information and is approved for use by the U.S. government and defense organizations. In healthcare, these devices are most commonly found in federal healthcare environments, such as military treatment facilities or systems supporting the Department of Veterans Affairs, where clinical or operational workflows may intersect with classified networks or data. In these settings, encrypted devices help ensure confidentiality and integrity while supporting mission-critical healthcare delivery. The importance of secure authentication is amplified in shared-device environments, where multiple users must access systems quickly without compromising the security boundary enforced by the encryption. 

While NSA Type 1 Encryption protects data at rest and in transit, it does not by itself solve the challenge of efficient and secure user access. Shared clinical devices, even when they are type 1 encrypted devices, still require strong authentication controls to ensure the right person is accessing the right system at the right time. This is where modern authentication approaches can complement encryption by reducing reliance on passwords and minimizing the risk of credential misuse, while respecting the strict requirements associated with encrypted devices in regulated healthcare environments. 

Imprivata healthcare solutions address this gap by enabling secure authentication workflows that operate alongside encrypted devices without altering or weakening their cryptographic protections. For non-clinical users accessing type 1 devices, Imprivata facial recognition can provide fast, passwordless authentication on shared devices, improving usability while maintaining strong identity assurance. By supporting facial recognition on shared clinical devices and aligning with high-security environments, Imprivata helps healthcare organizations set a strong standard for access and security and move forward on a practical, scalable, passwordless journey.