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GCSE Computer Science · key term
The process of converting readable data into ciphertext using an algorithm and a key, to protect its contents from unauthorised access.
Used by OCR
Paper 1
Revise: EncryptionEncryption protects the contents of the data during transmission. Rather than sending the original readable data, the sender converts it into a form that an interceptor cannot readily understand. Encryption is useful on both wired and wireless connections.
Converting data into a coded form that requires the correct decryption key to make it understandable.
If asked why encryption is used, link your answer to the situation: intercepted customer bank details cannot be understood without the correct decryption key.
Encryption does not stop data being intercepted. It protects the contents by making them difficult to understand without the correct key.
When explaining HTTPS, state that encryption prevents intercepted data being understood, not that it prevents interception.
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The conversion of readable data into unreadable data using an algorithm and a key.