What is the MOST secure method of storing critical system information?

Storing critical system information in an encrypted form and keeping it offline in a storage safe is recognized as the most secure method for several reasons. Firstly, encryption ensures that even if the data is accessed or intercepted, it remains unreadable without the proper decryption keys. Secondly, by keeping the information offline, it is protected from various online threats such as hacking, phishing, and malware attacks that could compromise data stored on connected devices or networks.

In contrast, options like utilizing a zip file with a password or creating an encrypted virtual disk, while they provide some level of security, do not offer the same robustness. A zip file can be susceptible to certain types of attacks, and if the password is weak or becomes known, the encryption can be easily bypassed. Similarly, an encrypted virtual disk, although secure when accessed appropriately, is still susceptible to risks associated with online access and network vulnerabilities.

Full disk encryption provides a solid level of security as well but does not fully eliminate the risks associated with being connected to a network or being physically accessed while the device is powered on. In comparison, keeping information stored encrypted and offline reduces exposure to these vulnerabilities, making it the most secure choice overall.