Understanding Data Encryption

 Data Encryption 101

  • What is Data Encryption?
Encryption is the process of encoding information. This process converts the original representation of the information, known as plain text, into an alternative form known as ciphertext. Only authorized users can decipher a ciphertext back to plain text and access the original information. 
  • Who uses encryption?
Government and military mainly uses data encryption to facilitate secret communications. Nowadays data encryption is commonly used in protecting information by different parties. 

Encryption is also used to protect data in transit, for example data being transferred via networks, mobile phones, wireless intercom systems etc. 
  • Limitations in data encryption
Encryption is used  in the 21st century to protect digital data and information. As computing power increased over the years, data encryption has become more advanced and more secured. But there are some limitations when using data encryption. 

The length of the encryption key is an indicator of the encryption method. For example, the original encryption key, DES was 56 bits, meaning it had 2^56 combination possibilities. With today's computing possibility 56 bits no longer secure to use. Modern encryption key is up to 2048 bits with RSA system. Decryption 2048 encryption key is nearly impossible. 
  • Attacks and countermeasures in data encryption 
Encryption is an important tool but not sufficient alone to ensure the security or privacy of sensitive information throughout its lifetime. 
Most applications of encryption only protect information only at a rest or in transit while leaving sensitive data in clear plain text. 

In response to encryption of data at rest, cyber-adversaries have developed new types of attacks. These more recent threats to encryption of data at rest include cryptographic attacks. 

-Thank You-

 Information from Wikipedia. 

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