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Encryption

What is encryption?

Encryption is the process of transforming information into code.

How does encryption work?

An algorithm is used to jumble up information into a format that is unreadable so that only users with the correct key can translate the message. The result of encrypted information is called ciphertext.

In order to read the encrypted information, a key is used in the process of decryption to transform the encrypted information into a readable format.

What is encryption used for?

Encryption is used for secrecy purposes. It protects data in transit, such as personal information you type in while ordering things online, and keeps messages confidential.

Types of Encryption

1. Public Key Encryption

Public Key Encryption (PKE) uses asymmetric key algorithms to encrypt and decrypt a message. A public key is used to encrypt a message while the matching private key is used to decrypt it.

2. Private Key Encryption

Private Key Encryption, also known as symmetric key encryption,  uses the same key to encrypt and decrypt a message.

3. Manual Encryption

User uses software and manually selects the files or folders for encryption and decryption.

4. Transparent Encryption

Automatically encrypts all information using a computer software.


Other examples of encryption:

(1)

 

1

2

3

4

5

1

A

B

C

D

E

2

F

G

H

I/J

K

3

L

M

N

O

P

4

Q

R

S

T

U

5

V

W

X

Y

Z










Message: 32 51 13 13 43

Translation: HELLO


(2) Morse Code

. . . .    .    . _ . .    . _ . .    _ _ _   

Explanation:

h=. . . .

e=.

l=. _ . .

l=. _ . .

o=_ _ _


Be aware that information that is encrypted still isn't safe--encrypted information can still be read by cryptanalysis.


For more information about encryption:

http://www.howstuffworks.com/encryption.ht

http://www.ehow.com/about_4815816_types-of-encryption.html


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