What is encryption?

Encryption is a method of converting intelligible data, also known as plain text, into unintelligible data, known as ciphertext. This is done with the help of a mathematical algorithm and a key, which protects the data from unauthorized access. The basic idea of encryption is to store or transmit information in a form that can be read only by people or systems that have the correct decryption key.

Why is encryption important?

In a world where data transfers take place over insecure networks like the Internet, encryption is essential. It ensures that sensitive information such as personal data, credit card information and corporate secrets are protected from potential attackers during transmission.

Encryption is used in many areas, including:

Data protection
To protect personal information and confidential data from unauthorized access, especially in email, mobile devices, and cloud storage.
Internet security
To securely transmit data over the Internet, such as online banking, e-commerce transactions, and secure connections to websites (HTTPS).
Cryptocurrencies
In cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, encryption is used to secure transactions and wallets.
Military and intelligence agencies
Used to secure secret communications and sensitive information.
Digital signatures
To authenticate messages and documents by digitally signing and encrypting them.

Different levels of encryption

There are different types of encryption based on different algorithms and key types. Here are the three main levels:

Symmetric encryption
Here, the same key is used for both encryption and decryption. This approach is fast, but requires that the key be securely exchanged between the parties.
Asymmetric encryption
Also known as public-key encryption, uses two different keys - a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. This allows secure data exchange without revealing the private key.
Hybrid encryption
A combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption. Symmetric encryption is used to encrypt data efficiently, while asymmetric encryption transmits keys securely.

How does SSL/TLS work?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security) are encryption protocols used to secure communication between a client (e.g. web browser) and a server (e.g. web server) over the Internet or other networks. They provide confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of transmitted data. Here is a basic explanation of how SSL/TLS works:

Handshake protocol
Communication begins with a handshake protocol, where the client and server agree on the version of the encryption protocol and the encryption algorithms. The server typically sends a digital certificate confirming its identity, and possibly a public key certificate as well.
Authentication
The client verifies the digital certificate sent by the server to ensure that the server is really who it says it is. This is done using certificate authorities (CAs), which verify and guarantee the authenticity of certificates.
Key exchange
After authentication is complete, the client and server begin exchanging a secret session key that is used to encrypt the data. This is usually done using asymmetric encryption. The client generates a random session key hold and encrypts it with the server's public key so that only the server can decrypt it.
Encrypted data transfer
After the session key is exchanged, the client and server use it to encrypt and decrypt the data that is exchanged between them. This is done using symmetric encryption, which is faster than the asymmetric encryption used in the handshake.
Integrity protection
In addition to encryption, SSL/TLS includes mechanisms to ensure data integrity. This means that it is difficult to tamper with data during transmission without being noticed.
Perfect forward and backward secrecy
SSL/TLS provides both forward and reverse secrecy. Forward secrecy means that even if the server's private key falls into the hands of an attacker, no previously transmitted communication can be decrypted. Backward secrecy means that even if the server's private key is compromised, the communication cannot be decrypted in the future.

The entire process ensures that communications between the client and server are secure so that sensitive information cannot be intercepted or tampered with by third parties. This is especially important for online transactions, e-mail communications, and other data-transmitting activities on the Internet.

Conclusion

Encryption is an essential part of IT security that helps ensure the confidentiality and integrity of your data. With various levels of encryption, including symmetric, asymmetric, and hybrid encryption, as well as technologies such as SSL/TLS, we can communicate and transmit data over the Internet more securely.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your security is our concern. Simply contact us via our contact form or by phone at +49 (0) 7245 919 581.

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