Security & Compliance
The process of encoding data so that only authorized parties with the correct decryption key can access and read it.
Encryption
Glossary Term
Security & Compliance
32
Total Glossary Terms
In our reference library
Encryption transforms readable plaintext into ciphertext using mathematical algorithms and keys, ensuring data confidentiality even if intercepted. There are two primary states: data at rest (stored on disks or databases) and data in transit (moving across networks), each requiring different encryption strategies. Standards like AES-256 for at-rest and TLS/SSL for in-transit encryption are widely adopted across industries. Encryption is frequently mandated by compliance frameworks such as GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2, making it a cornerstone of any secure cloud architecture.
Concept Visualization
Real-World Examples
- 1TLS/SSL encrypting data between your browser and websites (HTTPS)
- 2End-to-end encryption in messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp
- 3AES-256 encryption for data at rest in cloud storage services