The process of converting readable data into scrambled ciphertext that only someone with the correct key can decode.
Encryption protects information from anyone who intercepts or steals it. Symmetric encryption, such as AES, uses the same secret key to lock and unlock data and is fast enough for large files. Asymmetric or public-key encryption, such as RSA or elliptic-curve schemes, uses a pair of keys: a public key anyone can use to encrypt, and a private key only the owner holds to decrypt.
You rely on encryption constantly. HTTPS encrypts web traffic, many messaging apps offer end-to-end encryption, and modern phones encrypt stored data. Security teams often talk about protecting data in transit and at rest. The strength of encryption depends on sound algorithms, long enough keys, and, above all, keeping private keys safe.
Tools and policies, known as DLP, that detect and stop sensitive data from being shared, leaked, or moved outside approved channels.
E-SignatureAn electronic way to sign documents and agreements online, legally recognized for many transactions in most countries.
GDPRGeneral Data Protection Regulation: the European Union's law governing how organizations collect, use, and protect personal data.
HTTPSHypertext Transfer Protocol Secure: the encrypted version of HTTP, the protocol browsers use to load web pages.
HashingTransforming data of any size into a fixed-length string, called a hash, using a one-way mathematical function.
Post-Quantum CryptographyEncryption and digital signature methods designed to resist attacks from future quantum computers while running on today's ordinary hardware.
Quantum ComputingA type of computing that uses quantum-mechanical effects such as superposition and entanglement to process information in new ways.
QubitThe basic unit of information in a quantum computer, which can represent 0, 1, or a superposition of both at once.
Transport Layer SecurityThe cryptographic protocol that encrypts and authenticates data sent over networks, securing HTTPS, email, and many other services.
Virtual Private NetworkA service that creates an encrypted tunnel between a device and another network, protecting traffic and masking the user's IP address.
Zero-Knowledge ProofA cryptographic method that lets one party prove a statement is true without revealing any information beyond the fact that it is true.
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