Encryption

Understanding Encryption

Encryption is a process that involves converting information into a code to hide its true meaning. The study of encrypting and decrypting information is known as cryptography.

In the world of computing, unencrypted data is commonly referred to as plaintext, while encrypted data is called ciphertext.

Encryption can also be defined as the conversion of electronic information or signals into a secret code, consisting of letters, numbers, or symbols that are incomprehensible and unusable without specialized equipment.

The purpose of encryption is to scramble data in order to restrict access to authorized individuals, specifically those with specific privileges to view the information. It transforms plaintext data into what appears to be random data. This process requires the use of a cryptographic key, which is a set of mathematical values agreed upon by both the sender and recipient of the encrypted message.

For example, if the plaintext is “Cryptocurrency” and it is encrypted, the resulting ciphertext might be something like “SHSF#R&#244243,” making it unintelligible.

Although the encrypted data may appear random, it follows a logical and predictable pattern that allows the recipient, with the correct key, to decrypt the data and restore it to plaintext.

The most secure encryption methods use complex keys that make it highly unlikely for a third party to decrypt or crack the ciphertext through brute force, which involves using a bot to guess the key.

In the world of cryptocurrencies, encryption is often used to protect the password of one’s private key.