Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Definition
Encryption is the process of converting information or data into a secret code to prevent unauthorized access. It ensures that only authorized parties can understand and access the original information.
Decryption: Decryption is the reverse process of encryption where the secret code (encrypted data) is converted back into its original form (plain text) using a key or password.
Cryptography: Cryptography refers to the practice and study of techniques used for secure communication in the presence of adversaries. It includes encryption, decryption, and other related concepts.
Symmetric Key Encryption: Symmetric key encryption uses a single key for both encryption and decryption processes. The same key is shared between sender and receiver, so both parties must keep it secure.