Encryption | 3.2 | OCR GCSE Computer Science | J277

10 flashcards

Encryption

The process of scrambling data to make it unreadable so hackers cannot understand it, should it be intercepted during transmission.

What is encryption a type of?

Encryption is a type of utility software.

When is encryption often used?

When transferring data on wireless networks: as the data is easier to intercept on wireless networks, therefore needs protection.

Plaintext

The original, unencrypted data/message.

Ciphertext

The scrambled, unreadable message produced after encryption.

Cipher

The set of rules followed in order to convert plaintext to cyphertext.

How is plaintext converted into ciphertext?

By using an encryption key.

What happens at the correct destination?

A decryption key converts ciphertext back into plaintext, so that the users on the receiving device can understand it.

What types of data can encryption be used for?

All types of data - including images and web pages (especially for passwords). It can also be used for local storage.

What is a downside of encryption? (safety)

It does not directly stop data interception, but it makes it harder for hackers to interpret it.