Encryption

Encryption is the process of converting readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable form (ciphertext) using an algorithm and a key, so that only someone with the right key can decrypt and read it. It protects data in transit, such as HTTPS traffic, and at rest, such as files and databases.

Symmetric encryption, such as AES, uses the same key to encrypt and decrypt and is fast. Asymmetric encryption, such as RSA and elliptic-curve cryptography, uses a public key to encrypt and a matching private key to decrypt, and is used to exchange keys and create digital signatures.