What is meant by "data encryption"?

Data encryption refers to transforming data into a coded format, making it unreadable to anyone who does not possess the correct decryption key. This process protects sensitive information by ensuring that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be understood without the appropriate permissions. By converting the original data into an encoded version, encryption enhances security significantly, safeguarding information from various threats, including unauthorized access and data breaches.

The concept of encryption is fundamental in information security, particularly for organizations like the Department of Defense, which deal with highly sensitive and classified information. Encrypting data ensures confidentiality and integrity, making it an essential practice in protecting data both at rest and in transit.