# System Parameters

'EA' | Encryption Algorithm

## Description

The 'EA' parameter controls how file passwords are hashed and how files are encrypted for new file passwords.

If this parameter is On, the industry standard SHA-256 algorithm will be used to hash the password with a salt before it is written to the file. If the file is to be encrypted, the industry standard AES-256 algorithm will be used to encrypt any data written to the file. The maximum password size is 128 characters, and any data beyond that is simply ignored.

If this parameter is Off, the legacy custom PxPlus password hash algorithm will be used to hash the password before it is written to the file. If the file is to be encrypted, the legacy custom PxPlus encryption algorithm will be used to encrypt any data written to the file. The maximum password size is 8 characters, and any data beyond that is simply ignored.

#### Note:
If a password is added to a file when the 'EA' parameter is On, older versions of PxPlus will not be able to open the file.

(The 'EA' system parameter was added in PxPlus 2019.)

## Default

Off – The legacy custom PxPlus password hash algorithm is used for new file passwords.

## See Also

PASSWORD Apply Password and Encryption