1.5.9

Encryption Software

Test yourself on Encryption Software

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Encryption Software

Encryption software is essential whenever sensitive data is being transferred or stored.

What is encryption?

What is encryption?

  • Encryption is the "scrambling" of data.
  • It works by applying a special encryption algorithm to the data in the file.
  • After the encryption algorithm has been applied, the data no longer represents the original format.
    • The data makes no sense, to either a human or a computer, when viewed after it has been encrypted.
  • Encryption processes are very mathematical processes. Strong encryption algorithms can be the result of years of professional research.
What is decryption?

What is decryption?

  • Decryption is when an authorised party uses a special key to un-scramble the data.
  • The key prevents unauthorised users from accessing the data.
Encryption in operating systems

Encryption in operating systems

  • Good encryption utilities will work closely with the operating system to encrypt and decrypt files in real time as you need to access them.
Considerations

Considerations

  • Not all data stored on a computer needs to be encrypted.
  • The process of encrypting and decrypting a file takes time.
  • Data is encrypted when it is being transferred between computers to protect sensitive information in transit.
    • It is not secure to send your bank details over the internet unencrypted.
Jump to other topics
1

Computer Systems

1.1

Systems Architecture

1.2

Memory & Storage

1.3

Computer Networks, Connections & Protocols

1.4

Network Security

1.5

Systems Software

1.6

Ethical, Legal, Cultural & Environmental Concern

2

Computational Thinking, Algorithms & Programming

2.1

Algorithms

2.2

Programming Fundamentals

2.3

Producing Robust Programs

2.4

Boolean Logic

2.5

Programming Languages & IDEs

Practice questions on Encryption Software

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