What is the process of encoding information to ensure that only authorized parties can read it?

The process of encoding information to ensure that only authorized parties can read it is known as encryption. Encryption transforms original data, called plain text, into an unreadable format, known as ciphertext, using algorithms and encryption keys. Only individuals or systems possessing the corresponding decryption keys can convert the ciphertext back into its original form, thereby ensuring that unauthorized users cannot access the sensitive information.

In the context of data protection and information security, encryption serves as a vital mechanism for safeguarding data confidentiality, whether the data is at rest, in transit, or in use. It is widely used in various applications, from securing online transactions to protecting sensitive files stored on devices or in the cloud.

Authentication refers to verifying the identity of a user or system, while decryption is the process of converting encrypted data back into its readable format. Hashing, on the other hand, creates a fixed-size string of characters from input data, which is typically used for data integrity verification rather than confidentiality. Each of these processes addresses different aspects of data security, but encryption specifically focuses on ensuring only authorized access to the information.