Encryption & Its Types
Quick Reference
| Type | Key Management | Use Case | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symmetric | Same key | Bulk encryption | Fast |
| Asymmetric | Public/private | Key exchange, signatures | Slow |
| TLS/SSL | Asymmetric + symmetric | HTTPS | Fast (after handshake) |
Clear Definition
Encryption converts data into ciphertext to protect confidentiality. Symmetric encryption uses same key. Asymmetric encryption uses public/private key pairs. TLS/SSL secures data in transit.
š” Key Insight: Use asymmetric for key exchange, symmetric for bulk encryption. Encrypt data at rest and in transit.
Core Concepts
Symmetric Encryption
- Same key encrypts/decrypts
- Fast, efficient
- Key distribution challenge
- Examples: AES, DES
Asymmetric Encryption
- Public key encrypts, private decrypts
- Solves key distribution
- Slower than symmetric
- Examples: RSA, ECC
TLS/SSL
- Combines asymmetric + symmetric
- Asymmetric for handshake
- Symmetric for data encryption
- Secures HTTPS
Best Practices
- Encrypt in Transit: Always use TLS
- Encrypt at Rest: Database encryption
- Key Management: Secure key storage
- Key Rotation: Rotate keys regularly
Quick Reference Summary
Symmetric: Same key, fast, for bulk encryption.
Asymmetric: Public/private keys, for key exchange.
TLS/SSL: Secures data in transit (HTTPS).
Key: Encrypt at rest and in transit.
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