Modern computers come with encryption tools and make it unreadable for anyone without the right key. But what is encryption exactly and how does it function? This article provides the fundamentals of encryption and how it can help protect sensitive information from hackers.
In simple terms, data encryption transforms data that is readable into coded ciphertext that can only be deciphered only by authorized users with the right password. It is a critical component of cyber security that guarantees security of data and keeps confidential information from the hands of unauthorized users.
A typical form employs mathematical models that are cryptographic, which convert the original information into a jumbled assortment of characters (also called ciphertext). Encryption algorithms “scramble” bits of information in a random manner, so that even with a huge computing power, it would take a lot of time https://bigtechinfo.com/secureline-vpn-review to find the key to convert back to plain text.
If you are using AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) which is the most popular encryption method, for your digital files that means that each of the 0s and ones in the file is scrambled 10 times in a semi random pattern. It will take a computer some time to reorder all the numbers into the proper order, without the key.
The encryption process also helps prevent information leaks and ransomware attacks. If a hacker steals encrypted data, they can’t read it and will be incapable of blackmailing the company or the individuals involved in the risk of releasing the stolen data to the dark web. The encryption also protects backup systems against hackers since they are unable to access the data in its original format.