Data Encryption, Symmetric and Asymmetric Ciphers

What is Data Encryption??

Data encryption converts data from a readable, plaintext format into an unreadable, encoded format: ciphertext. Users and processes can only read and process encrypted data after it is decrypted. The decryption key is secret, so it must be protected against unauthorized access.

To encrypt data is to take a piece of information, and translate it into another piece of unrecognizable information. This end product is called a ciphertext.

Data Encryption: Definition

What is data encryption and why do it? 

Data encryption converts data from a readable, plaintext format into an unreadable, encoded format: ciphertext. 

Users and processes can only read and process encrypted data after decrypted. The decryption key is secret, so it must be protected against unauthorized access.

Encryption is the process of converting data into an unusable form and does not stop hacking or data theft. Instead, it prevents stolen content from being used, since the hacker or thief cannot see it in plaintext format.

Watch the webinar below for a discussion of how data privacy has evolved in the cloud era, including today’s encryption and security measures, and how to ensure your organization is prepared.W

Why Encrypt Data?

Massive quantities of sensitive information are managed and stored online in the cloud or on connected servers. This is because it’s virtually impossible to conduct business or go through personal life day to day without your sensitive data being transmitted and stored by the networked computer systems of various organizations.

Data encryption algorithms scramble plaintext so that only the person with the decryption key can read it. This process provides data security for personal information that users receive, send, and store on mobile devices, including those connected to the IoT.

Types of Data Encryption

There are two main kinds of data encryption: symmetric encryption and asymmetric encryption. In symmetric encryption, a single, private password both encrypts and decrypts data. Asymmetric encryption, sometimes referred to as public-key encryption or public-key cryptography, uses two keys for encryption and decryption. A shared, public key encrypts the data. A private, unshared key that must remain protected decrypts the data.

Symmetric-key encryption is quicker than asymmetric encryption, but before decryption can take place, it requires the sender to exchange the encryption key with the recipient. This in turn has led to massive numbers of keys for organizations to manage securely—a growing problem. For this reason, many data encryption services have adapted to using asymmetric algorithms.

Beyond the symmetric and asymmetric distinction, there are several methods of encryption and handling secure data in practice today. Each data encryption standard was developed to meet different security needs. The most common examples of data security encryption techniques are:

Symmetric Cipher vs. Asymmetric Cipher:

1. Symmetric Cipher:

Ciphers or algorithms can be either symmetric or asymmetric.

A symmetric cipher uses the same key for encryption and decryption.

Symmetric ones use the same key (called a secret key or private key) for transforming the original message, called plaintext, into ciphertext and vice versa. Symmetric ciphers are generally faster than their asymmetric counterparts, which use a closely-held private key as well as a public key shared between the two parties (hence public-key cryptography, or PKC). Examples of symmetric ciphers are Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Data Encryption Standard (DES), Blowfish, and International Data Encryption Algorithm (IDEA).

The use of a symmetric cipher presents the familiar challenge of how to share the secret key between the parties securely, as an unauthorized party to the conversation may intercept it and eavesdrop on future conversations. As a solution, an asymmetric cipher is typically used for the key exchange. Examples of widely-used key-exchange asymmetric ciphers include the Diffie–Hellman key exchange protocol, the Digital Signature Standard (DSS, which incorporates the Digital Signature Algorithm or DSA), various elliptic curve techniques, and the RSA encryption algorithm (PKCS#1).

Example:

“Symmetric ciphers such as AES are fast and efficient, but since they use the same key for encryption and decryption, their private keys must be distributed to the parties in a way that safeguards their secrecy. For that reason, PKC such as Diffie-Hellman is used.”

Symmetric encryption is a widely used method for securing data across various applications, providing confidentiality and integrity. By utilizing a single key for both encryption and decryption, symmetric encryption examples showcase the technique's speed and efficiency in protecting sensitive information. From securing online communications to encrypting sensitive files, symmetric encryption remains a vital component of modern cybersecurity.

Three practical symmetric encryption examples:

1. Secure messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Signal): These messaging platforms use symmetric encryption, such as the Signal Protocol, to ensure that messages are encrypted end-to-end, allowing only the intended recipients to read the content.
2. File encryption software (e.g., VeraCrypt, AxCrypt): Symmetric encryption algorithms like AES are employed by file encryption software to protect sensitive data stored on devices, ensuring data remains secure even if the device is lost or stolen.
3. BitLocker: When you activate BitLocker on a Windows computer to encrypt all hard drives. By unlocking the PC with his/her passcode, the user will decrypt data without the risk of exposing its secret encryption key. 

2. Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric encryption, on the other hand, was created to solve the inherent issue of symmetric encryption: the need of sharing a single encryption key that is used both for encrypting and decrypting data.

WHAT IS AN ASYMMETRIC KEY?

Asymmetric keys are the cornerstone of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), an encryption technique that requires two keys, one to lock or encrypt the plaintext and another to unlock or decrypt the cyphertext. Neither key performs both functions.

This newer and safer type of encryption method utilizes two keys for its encryption process, the public key, used for encryption, and the private key used for decryption. These keys are related, connected, and work in the following way:

A public key is available for anyone who needs to encrypt a piece of information. This key doesn’t work for the decryption process. A user needs to have a secondary key, the private key, to decrypt this information. This way, the private key is only held by the actor who decrypts the information, without sacrificing security as you scale security.

Examples:

Symmetric vs asymmetric is a comparison that's often used in the world of cryptography and computer security. Symmetric encryption involves using a single key to encrypt and decrypt data, while asymmetric encryption uses two keys - one public and one private - to encrypt and decrypt data. Each type of encryption has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the user.

In popular culture, the concept of symmetric vs asymmetric encryption is often explored in movies and TV shows that involve hacking and espionage. For example, in the TV show "Mr. Robot," the protagonist Elliot uses asymmetric encryption to protect his data from hackers and other adversaries.

What is Data Encryption?

Data Encryption is a process that can be as easy as flipping on a switch if you know what you're looking to achieve. Let's recap the basics of this data security asset. To encrypt data is to take a piece of information, and translate it into another piece of unrecognizable information. This end product is called a ciphertext.

To get a ciphertext, you run the information that is to be encrypted through an encryption algorithm. This algorithm takes the original information and, based on randomized rules, transforms the information into a new, undecipherable piece of data. Think of it as a 'translation'.

What the encryption algorithm does is create a new language, and hide sensitive data by transforming it into this secret code, which you can only decrypt and turn back to plaintext if you know the rules, or what's called a key. The key represents the mathematical steps the algorithm took to convert your text from "Hello World" into "XJtg920kl#aJFJ"%*¨*FK". Without it, you can't decrypt the data, and thus it is protected from unauthorized access.

Types of Encryption Systems

There are many different types of encryption algorithms and methods to pick from, so how do you know which one is the safest pick for your cybersecurity needs? Let’s begin with the most common types of encryption systems: symmetric vs asymmetric encryption.

Symmetric Encryption

In this type of  encryption, there is only one key, and all parties involved use the same key to encrypt and decrypt information. By using a single key, the process is straightforward, as per the following example: you encrypt an email with a unique key, send that email to your friend Tom, and he will use the same symmetric key to unlock/decrypt the email.

WHAT IS A SYMMETRIC KEY?

A symmetric key is one that may be used to encrypt and decode data. This implies that in order to decrypt information, the same key that was used to encrypt it must be utilized. In practice, the keys represent a shared secret shared by two or more people that may be utilized to maintain a confidential information link.

The perks of symmetric encryption are its faster performance and low resource consumption, but it is inherently older and less secure than its counterpart. The reason is simple: if you scale your encryption to a company-wide scale, it means you’re putting all your trust into a single key you will need to share around a lot.

Exploring symmetric encryption examples in everyday technologies

Symmetric encryption is a widely used method for securing data across various applications, providing confidentiality and integrity. By utilizing a single key for both encryption and decryption, symmetric encryption examples showcase the technique's speed and efficiency in protecting sensitive information. From securing online communications to encrypting sensitive files, symmetric encryption remains a vital component of modern cybersecurity.

Three practical symmetric encryption examples:

1. Secure messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Signal): These messaging platforms use symmetric encryption, such as the Signal Protocol, to ensure that messages are encrypted end-to-end, allowing only the intended recipients to read the content.
2. File encryption software (e.g., VeraCrypt, AxCrypt): Symmetric encryption algorithms like AES are employed by file encryption software to protect sensitive data stored on devices, ensuring data remains secure even if the device is lost or stolen.
3. BitLocker: When you activate BitLocker on a Windows computer to encrypt all hard drives. By unlocking the PC with his/her passcode, the user will decrypt data without the risk of exposing its secret encryption key. 

Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric encryption, on the other hand, was created to solve the inherent issue of symmetric encryption: the need of sharing a single encryption key that is used both for encrypting and decrypting data.

WHAT IS AN ASYMMETRIC KEY?

Asymmetric keys are the cornerstone of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), an encryption technique that requires two keys, one to lock or encrypt the plaintext and another to unlock or decrypt the cyphertext. Neither key performs both functions.

This newer and safer type of encryption method utilizes two keys for its encryption process, the public key, used for encryption, and the private key used for decryption. These keys are related, connected, and work in the following way:

A public key is available for anyone who needs to encrypt a piece of information. This key doesn’t work for the decryption process. A user needs to have a secondary key, the private key, to decrypt this information. This way, the private key is only held by the actor who decrypts the information, without sacrificing security as you scale security.

Exploring Asymmetric Encryption Examples in Everyday Technologies

Asymmetric encryption plays a critical role in modern-day cybersecurity, providing confidentiality, integrity, and authentication in various applications. By using public and private key pairs, asymmetric encryption examples are found across a range of industries and technologies, demonstrating its importance in securing digital information. This versatile encryption method has become an essential tool for safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring secure communications.

Three practical asymmetric encryption examples:

1. Secure email communications (e.g., PGP, S/MIME): Asymmetric encryption is utilized in secure email communication protocols such as Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) and Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME). These protocols leverage public and private keys to encrypt email content, ensuring only the intended recipient with the correct private key can decrypt and read the message. This method provides confidentiality and maintains message integrity.
2. Digital signatures for document authenticity and integrity (e.g., Adobe Sign, DocuSign): Asymmetric encryption is also used in digital signature services like Adobe Sign and DocuSign. When a user signs a document digitally, their private key is used to create a unique signature. The recipient can then verify the authenticity and integrity of the document using the sender's public key. This process ensures the document hasn't been tampered with and confirms the identity of the signer.
3. Secure key exchange and establishment in SSL/TLS protocol for secure websites: Asymmetric encryption plays a vital role in the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols, which are used to secure data transmission between a user's browser and a website. During the initial handshake process, asymmetric encryption is used for the secure exchange of a symmetric encryption key, which is then used to encrypt and decrypt data for the remainder of the session. This approach combines the security advantages of asymmetric encryption with the speed of symmetric encryption for efficient and secure communication.

Symmetric vs Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric and symmetric encryption are two primary techniques used to secure data. Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption, while asymmetric encryption uses a pair of keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. ELI5: Imagine symmetric encryption as a single key that locks and unlocks a treasure chest, while asymmetric encryption uses two keys—a key to lock (public) and a different key to unlock (private).

Symmetric vs asymmetric is a comparison that's often used in the world of cryptography and computer security. Symmetric encryption involves using a single key to encrypt and decrypt data, while asymmetric encryption uses two keys - one public and one private - to encrypt and decrypt data. Each type of encryption has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the user.

In popular culture, the concept of symmetric vs asymmetric encryption is often explored in movies and TV shows that involve hacking and espionage. For example, in the TV show "Mr. Robot," the protagonist Elliot uses asymmetric encryption to protect his data from hackers and other adversaries.

What is Data Encryption?

Data Encryption is a process that can be as easy as flipping on a switch if you know what you're looking to achieve. Let's recap the basics of this data security asset. To encrypt data is to take a piece of information, and translate it into another piece of unrecognizable information. This end product is called a ciphertext.

To get a ciphertext, you run the information that is to be encrypted through an encryption algorithm. This algorithm takes the original information and, based on randomized rules, transforms the information into a new, undecipherable piece of data. Think of it as a 'translation'.

What the encryption algorithm does is create a new language, and hide sensitive data by transforming it into this secret code, which you can only decrypt and turn back to plaintext if you know the rules, or what's called a key. The key represents the mathematical steps the algorithm took to convert your text from "Hello World" into "XJtg920kl#aJFJ"%*¨*FK". Without it, you can't decrypt the data, and thus it is protected from unauthorized access.

Types of Encryption Systems

There are many different types of encryption algorithms and methods to pick from, so how do you know which one is the safest pick for your cybersecurity needs? Let’s begin with the most common types of encryption systems: symmetric vs asymmetric encryption.

Symmetric Encryption

In this type of  encryption, there is only one key, and all parties involved use the same key to encrypt and decrypt information. By using a single key, the process is straightforward, as per the following example: you encrypt an email with a unique key, send that email to your friend Tom, and he will use the same symmetric key to unlock/decrypt the email.

WHAT IS A SYMMETRIC KEY?

A symmetric key is one that may be used to encrypt and decode data. This implies that in order to decrypt information, the same key that was used to encrypt it must be utilized. In practice, the keys represent a shared secret shared by two or more people that may be utilized to maintain a confidential information link.

The perks of symmetric encryption are its faster performance and low resource consumption, but it is inherently older and less secure than its counterpart. The reason is simple: if you scale your encryption to a company-wide scale, it means you’re putting all your trust into a single key you will need to share around a lot.

Exploring symmetric encryption examples in everyday technologies

Symmetric encryption is a widely used method for securing data across various applications, providing confidentiality and integrity. By utilizing a single key for both encryption and decryption, symmetric encryption examples showcase the technique's speed and efficiency in protecting sensitive information. From securing online communications to encrypting sensitive files, symmetric encryption remains a vital component of modern cybersecurity.

Three practical symmetric encryption examples:

1. Secure messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Signal): These messaging platforms use symmetric encryption, such as the Signal Protocol, to ensure that messages are encrypted end-to-end, allowing only the intended recipients to read the content.
2. File encryption software (e.g., VeraCrypt, AxCrypt): Symmetric encryption algorithms like AES are employed by file encryption software to protect sensitive data stored on devices, ensuring data remains secure even if the device is lost or stolen.
3. BitLocker: When you activate BitLocker on a Windows computer to encrypt all hard drives. By unlocking the PC with his/her passcode, the user will decrypt data without the risk of exposing its secret encryption key. 

Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric encryption, on the other hand, was created to solve the inherent issue of symmetric encryption: the need of sharing a single encryption key that is used both for encrypting and decrypting data.

WHAT IS AN ASYMMETRIC KEY?

Asymmetric keys are the cornerstone of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), an encryption technique that requires two keys, one to lock or encrypt the plaintext and another to unlock or decrypt the cyphertext. Neither key performs both functions.

This newer and safer type of encryption method utilizes two keys for its encryption process, the public key, used for encryption, and the private key used for decryption. These keys are related, connected, and work in the following way:

A public key is available for anyone who needs to encrypt a piece of information. This key doesn’t work for the decryption process. A user needs to have a secondary key, the private key, to decrypt this information. This way, the private key is only held by the actor who decrypts the information, without sacrificing security as you scale security.

Exploring Asymmetric Encryption Examples in Everyday Technologies

Asymmetric encryption plays a critical role in modern-day cybersecurity, providing confidentiality, integrity, and authentication in various applications. By using public and private key pairs, asymmetric encryption examples are found across a range of industries and technologies, demonstrating its importance in securing digital information. This versatile encryption method has become an essential tool for safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring secure communications.

Three practical asymmetric encryption examples:

1. Secure email communications (e.g., PGP, S/MIME): Asymmetric encryption is utilized in secure email communication protocols such as Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) and Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME). These protocols leverage public and private keys to encrypt email content, ensuring only the intended recipient with the correct private key can decrypt and read the message. This method provides confidentiality and maintains message integrity.
2. Digital signatures for document authenticity and integrity (e.g., Adobe Sign, DocuSign): Asymmetric encryption is also used in digital signature services like Adobe Sign and DocuSign. When a user signs a document digitally, their private key is used to create a unique signature. The recipient can then verify the authenticity and integrity of the document using the sender's public key. This process ensures the document hasn't been tampered with and confirms the identity of the signer.
3. Secure key exchange and establishment in SSL/TLS protocol for secure websites: Asymmetric encryption plays a vital role in the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols, which are used to secure data transmission between a user's browser and a website. During the initial handshake process, asymmetric encryption is used for the secure exchange of a symmetric encryption key, which is then used to encrypt and decrypt data for the remainder of the session. This approach combines the security advantages of asymmetric encryption with the speed of symmetric encryption for efficient and secure communication.

Symmetric vs Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric and symmetric encryption are two primary techniques used to secure data. Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption, while asymmetric encryption uses a pair of keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. ELI5: Imagine symmetric encryption as a single key that locks and unlocks a treasure chest, while asymmetric encryption uses two keys—a key to lock (public) and a different key to unlock (private).

Choosing between asymmetric vs symmetric encryption can be a difficult choice, so here are some key differences:

1. Speed: Symmetric encryption is generally faster than asymmetric encryption, as it requires less computational power, making it suitable for encrypting large amounts of data.
2. Key distribution: In symmetric encryption, secure key distribution is crucial, as the same key is used for both encryption and decryption. Asymmetric encryption simplifies key distribution, as only the public key needs to be shared, while the private key remains confidential.
3. Key usage: Symmetric encryption uses a single shared key for both encryption and decryption, while asymmetric encryption employs a pair of keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption.
4. Use cases: Symmetric encryption is ideal for bulk data encryption and secure communication within closed systems, whereas asymmetric encryption is often used for secure key exchanges, digital signatures, and authentication in open systems.
5. Security: Asymmetric encryption is considered more secure due to the use of two separate keys, making it harder for attackers to compromise the system. However, symmetric encryption can still provide strong security when implemented correctly with strong key management practices.

Selecting the right encryption method for your needs

Choosing between symmetric and asymmetric encryption depends on the specific security requirements and use cases. Understanding when to use symmetric vs asymmetric encryption is crucial for maintaining secure communications and protecting sensitive data. Factors such as key management, computational efficiency, and desired functionality should be considered when deciding which encryption method best suits a particular scenario.

Three practical examples of when to use symmetric vs asymmetric encryption:

1. File encryption: Symmetric encryption is preferred for encrypting files due to its speed and computational efficiency, making it ideal for handling large volumes of data.
2. Secure key exchange: Asymmetric encryption is commonly used for secure key exchange in protocols like SSL/TLS, ensuring that symmetric keys can be safely shared between parties without being intercepted.
3. Digital signatures: Asymmetric encryption is suitable for creating digital signatures, allowing users to authenticate documents and verify their integrity using public and private key pairs.

References:

1. https://www.druva.com/glossary/what-is-data-encryption-definition-and-related-faqs
2. https://www.hypr.com/security-encyclopedia/symmetric-cipher
3. https://preyproject.com/blog/types-of-encryption-symmetric-or-asymmetric-rsa-or-aes