Data Encryption Standards

Data Encryption Standards

Encryption Fundamentals

Data encryption transforms plaintext into ciphertext using algorithms and keys, protecting confidentiality. Modern encryption standards use mathematically strong algorithms resistant to cryptanalysis, providing security for data at rest and in transit.

Data Encryption

Symmetric Encryption

Symmetric encryption (AES, ChaCha20) uses same key for encryption and decryption. AES with 256-bit keys is industry standard, providing strong security with excellent performance for bulk data encryption.

Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric encryption (RSA, ECC) uses public/private key pairs. Public keys encrypt data only private keys can decrypt, enabling secure key exchange, digital signatures, and authentication. Common in TLS, email encryption, and authentication.

Algorithm Selection

Choose algorithms based on security requirements, compliance mandates, performance needs, and compatibility. Use AES-256 for symmetric, RSA 2048+ or ECC for asymmetric, and SHA-256+ for hashing. Avoid deprecated algorithms like DES, MD5.

Implementation Best Practices

Use established libraries, never implement custom cryptography, generate keys using cryptographically secure random number generators, protect keys rigorously, use authenticated encryption modes (GCM), and maintain crypto-agility for algorithm updates.

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