Encryption is the process of scrambling readable data into an unreadable format to prevent unauthorized access. It serves as the primary backbone of modern cybersecurity, transforming clear information (plaintext) into a chaotic secret code (ciphertext) using complex mathematical algorithms. Only individuals or systems possessing the correct digital cryptographic key can unscramble and read the data. How Encryption Works The encryption workflow relies on three core components:
Plaintext: The original, readable message or data (e.g., a text message saying “Hello”).
Algorithm: The mathematical formula or cipher used to scramble the data.
Key: A unique string of random bits used by the algorithm to lock or unlock the data. Core Types of Encryption Cryptographic systems generally fall into three categories: What is encryption and how does it work? – Google Cloud
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