title: Should I use an initialization vector (IV) along with my encryption?
body: <p>Is it recommended that I use an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Initialization_vector" rel="noreferrer">initialization vector</a> to encrypt/decrypt my data? Will it make things more secure? Is it one of those things that need to be evaluated on a case by case basis?</p>
  
  <p>To put this into actual context, the Win32 Cryptography function, <a href="http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa380272(VS.85).aspx" rel="noreferrer">CryptSetKeyParam</a> allows for the setting of an initialization vector on a key prior to encrypting/decrypting. Other API's also allow for this. </p>
  
  <p>What is generally recommended and why?</p>