Encryption is one of the main tools for keeping us safe when we browse the Internet or use different applications.
Encryption helps us protect and keep secure our activity, the information we share, and our personal and session data.
In this context, at Enthec we develop advanced solutions in the continuous management of exposure to threats (CTEM) integrating encryption as a fundamental layer in the protection of sensitive data. With technologies that analyze and mitigate risks in real time, at Enthec we help companies protect their information against unauthorized access and data breaches.
What is encryption?
Data encryption is one of the main tools for maintaining security on the internet and in various applications. It is a cryptographic process that encodes information so that only the sender and receiver can access it.
In the field of computing and cybersecurity, encryption uses complex mathematical algorithms to protect information. For a piece of data to be considered encrypted, it must comply with certain principles:
- Privacy. Only authorized persons can access the information.
- Integrity. No external agent has modified the information. The information must be kept intact from the time it is received until it is delivered.
- Authentication: The other party’s identity must be verified within this exchange of information.
- Non-repudiation: Neither party may deny the transmission of the information.
Thanks to these principles, encryption is one of the most effective methods in data security.
Types of encryption
There are two main types of encryption: symmetric and asymmetric. Both methods have their characteristics and applications.
Symmetric encryption
Symmetric encryption, also called secret key cryptography, is a cryptographic method that uses the same key to encrypt and decrypt messages between the sender and receiver.
Once both parties have access to this key, the sender encrypts a message using the key, sends it to the recipient, and the recipient decrypts it with the same key. It is the oldest form of encryption and is still relevant due to its data transmission speed.
It is ideal for the transmission of large volumes of data. Some of the most commonly used algorithms in this encryption method are:
- AES-128
- AES-256
- DES
- Blowfish
- RC4
The main drawback of this method is the need to share the secret key securely. If an attacker gains access to the key, all information encrypted with it is compromised.
Asymmetric encryption
Asymmetric encryption, also known as public-key cryptography or PKI, is a cryptographic method characterized by the use of two keys, one public and one private, to transfer data and information.
In this type of encryption, the sender uses the public key to encode information into an unreadable format, which can only be decrypted or read with a secret key. When sending encrypted data from the public key scheme, the receiver needs a hidden key to access the encrypted data.
This system is more secure than symmetric encryption, as the private key is never shared. However, it is a slower process involving more complex mathematical calculations. Some standard algorithms in this type of encryption are:
- RSA
- DSA
- PKCS
- ElGamal
Asymmetric encryption is commonly used in secure transactions, such as sending encrypted emails and authenticating websites using digital certificates.
Differences Between Symmetric Encryption and Asymmetric Encryption
| Feature | Symmetric encryption | Asymmetric encryption |
| Safety | It is less secure, as the key must be shared | More secure, with separate keys |
| Velocity | Faster | Slower |
| Number of keys | A key is needed per communication | A pair of keys (public and private) are used |
| Volume | Transmission of small volumes of data | The large volume of data in transit |
If you want to learn more about effective techniques for data encryption, click here→ What is data encryption: features and how it works.
How does encryption work in practice?
Data encryption is used in many areas of technology. Some examples of encryption in everyday life include:
Secure communications
Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal use end-to-end encryption to protect conversations. Only the sender and recipient can read the messages, preventing third parties from accessing the information.
Banking transactions
Financial institutions use bank encryption to safeguard customer data. Every time we make an online payment, our data is protected by encryption, preventing attackers from intercepting it.
Data storage
Companies and users encrypt files and databases to prevent and manage unauthorized access. For example, modern operating systems offer options for encrypting hard drives, which prevents a third party from being able to read the information without the corresponding key.
Digital certificates and Internet security
Whenever we access a secure website (HTTPS), our browser uses asymmetric encryption to verify the site’s identity and protect data transmission. This is crucial for the security of online transactions and the protection of personal information.
Encryption Methods and Your Future
Encryption methods are also evolving with the advancement of technology. New forms of encryption based on quantum computing are currently being developed, which could change how we protect our information.
Some emerging methods include:
- Homomorphic encryption. It allows you to process encrypted data without decrypting it, which is helpful in cloud services.
- Quantum cryptography. It uses principles of quantum mechanics to ensure information security.
- Post-quantum encryption. Algorithms designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers.
Encryption is an essential tool in digital security. Knowing the different types of encryption and their applications helps us protect our information in an increasingly connected world. From symmetric to asymmetric encryption, each method has advantages and disadvantages depending on the context in which it is used.
Adopting good digital security practices and understanding data protection mechanisms is critical to maintaining online privacy. As technology evolves, encryption methods will continue to improve, providing new ways to protect our data from emerging threats.