Encrypting sensitive data is crucial for protecting user information, API keys, and confidential data in Node.js applications from unauthorized access. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve implemented data encryption in countless Node.js backend systems and enterprise applications. From my 25 years of experience in web development and 11 years with Node.js, the most secure and reliable approach is to use the built-in crypto module with AES encryption. This method provides strong cryptographic protection suitable for production applications.

Using the crypto module in Node.js provides cryptographic functionality for hashing, encryption, and security operations in server applications. With over 25 years of experience in software development and as the creator of CoreUI, I’ve implemented cryptographic operations extensively in authentication systems, data protection, and security-critical applications. From my expertise, the most essential approach is using crypto module methods for password hashing, data encryption, and secure token generation with proper security practices. This built-in module provides production-ready cryptographic operations without requiring external dependencies.