What is encryption
The term encryption should only be used to describe the use of cryptographic techniques (algorithms) to provide confidentiality of information. More often it is used, however, in the broader meaning of any use of cryptographic algorithms.
Encryption of messages through the use of secret keys is a very old technology, simple ciphers were already in use in the roman empire. Encryption is widely used both to protect passwords stored on computer systems as well as to prevent interception of network traffic on the Internet.
With the invention of asymmetric cryptographic algorithms which allow the use of separate keys for encryption and decryption, cryptographic technologies can not only provide confidentiality, but also authentication and integrity (digital signatures)
Related terms:
Vulnerability
Threat
Impact