Symmetric encryption uses a specific formula and cryptographic key for both encrypting and decrypting data. It is used to keep information private and secure, with only those with the password or secret code able to operate the key. It is typically used for sharing between two people or small groups.
Symmetric encryption uses symmetric key algorithms for encrypting and decrypting data. An algorithm is a specific formula with a small number of steps that contains instructions for solving a problem, and a symmetric key algorithm is a specific formula that often uses the same cryptographic key for both encryption and decryption. To better understand how it works, it helps to have an understanding of how cryptography works in relation to technology.
For example, a computer that needs to transfer sensitive information may choose to encrypt the information, a process that alters it into some sort of code that would look like a bunch of gibberish if someone tried to read it. After the information has been transferred to the desired location, a specific code deciphers the information into readable text. This process is known as decryption and your computer must have the correct code in order to successfully carry out this process. Banks that offer online services use a form of encryption to keep their customers’ information private and secure.
A mathematical formula known as a cryptographic algorithm is responsible for creating the code to encrypt information and the code to decipher it later. A specific piece of information known as a cryptographic key tells the cryptographic algorithm how to encrypt and then decrypt the specific information it receives. The key only works with that particular algorithm and would be useless for cracking the code by a different algorithm.
When using symmetric encryption, the algorithm uses the same cryptographic key to perform the encryption and decryption processes instead of using a separate key for each. The keys are usually identical or nearly identical with only a minor modification required to make each work. Typically, only those intending to use the key will know the password or other secret code, or phrase, required to operate the key. This allows two people to share information with each other without worrying that someone else might intercept the code and read it.
Other terms used to describe symmetric key algorithms used in symmetric cryptography include secret key cryptography, private key cryptography, and single key cryptography. Symmetric encryption is typically used for sharing between two people or a small group rather than by large online networks like banks. An ATM, for example, may use symmetric encryption and require the user to enter a bank account number and personal identification number before allowing that person to access their account.
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