Encrypted-Value Costs

An encrypted value uses more storage space than the corresponding plain-text value because all of the information needed to decrypt the value except the encryption key is stored with the value. Most encrypted data requires approximately 33 percent more storage space than unencrypted data. Omitting the hint used with the password can reduce encryption overhead by up to 50 bytes. If you are using encrypted values, you must make sure that you have sufficient space available for the values.

For information on encryption, see the IBM Informix: Dynamic Server Administrator's Guide.