What is Encryption in Computer Software?
Every modern computer includes tools for encrypting data to make it inaccessible to anyone without a key. But what exactly is encryption and how does it work? This article explains how encryption protects sensitive information from hackers.
In simple terms, data encryption converts textual information into encryption that can be deciphered only by authorized users with the right password. It is an important component of cyber-security which guarantees the security of data and protects sensitive information from any unauthorised users.
A typical form employs mathematical models that are cryptographic in order to convert the original information into a jumbled collection of characters (also known as ciphertext). The encryption algorithm “scrambles” individual bits randomly in order to require an enormous amount of computing power to figure out the key and then convert back to plaintext.
If you use AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), the most common encryption method, on your digital files every one of the 0s and ones in the file is smashed 10 times in a semi-random pattern. Without the right key to decipher it the computer would need to run for an extremely long time trying to organize them all into the proper order.
It also helps to stop data leaks and ransomware attacks. If a hacker steals encrypted data, they won’t be able to read it and will be in a position to not blackmail the business or any other individuals who are involved in the threat of releasing the stolen data to the dark web. Additionally, encryption protects backup systems from hackers because they aren’t able access the data in its original form.
