Encryption is the process of converting information or data into a code to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring confidentiality and data integrity. It is a fundamental technology in cybersecurity, used in various applications such as securing communications, protecting sensitive data, and verifying identities.
Symmetric key cryptography uses the same secret key for both encryption and decryption, making it efficient but requiring secure key distribution between parties. Its security relies on the secrecy of the key, which can be a challenge in large-scale or open networks.
Digital signatures are cryptographic mechanisms that ensure the authenticity and integrity of digital messages or documents by using public key infrastructure. They provide a way to verify the sender's identity and confirm that the content has not been altered since it was signed.
Quantum cryptography leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to create secure communication channels that are theoretically immune to eavesdropping, primarily through quantum key distribution (QKD). It fundamentally relies on the behavior of quantum particles, such as entanglement and superposition, to detect any interception attempts by an adversary.
Hardware protection is a critical aspect of computer security that involves safeguarding physical devices and the data they store from unauthorized access and damage. It employs a combination of physical security measures, cryptographic techniques, and access control mechanisms to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of hardware resources.
Non-linkability is a privacy property ensuring that two or more items of interest, such as transactions or identities, cannot be correlated or linked by an observer. It is a critical component in systems requiring anonymity and confidentiality, such as digital currencies and privacy-preserving data sharing protocols.