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Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science · 0478
Topic 2: Data Transmission — Part 3
Encryption
Encryption
Encryption converts readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext). The goal is to prevent unauthorized users from accessing original information if it is intercepted or stolen.
| Type | Key Usage | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symmetric | The same private key is used by both the sender and receiver for encryption and decryption. | Faster and simpler to implement. | The key must be exchanged, making it vulnerable to interception during the exchange. |
| Asymmetric | Uses two mathematically related keys: a public key (shared openly) and a private key (kept secret). | More secure; no need to share the secret decryption key. | Slower and more computationally intensive. |
Asymmetric process:
- The sender encrypts the message using the recipient's public key.
- The message can only be decrypted by the recipient's corresponding private key, which only the recipient has access to.
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