Encryption is the cryptographic transformation of readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable form (ciphertext) so its meaning is concealed from anyone without the key. It protects data confidentiality in storage and transit.
What it means
Per NIST, encryption converts plaintext into ciphertext using cryptographic algorithms and keys, so the data cannot be read or used without the right key. It underpins secure websites, protected files, and data privacy work. Understanding encryption basics is common across security, cloud, and networking roles.