Encryption - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Encryption is a crucial concept in computer science, particularly in the realm of digital security. It involves converting plain, readable data into a coded form, known as ciphertext, using a specific algorithm and an encryption key. This process ensures that only authorised users, who possess the correct decryption key, can access the original information. For GCSE Computer Science students, understanding encryption is essential as it protects sensitive data from unauthorised access, thereby ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and security in digital communications and data storage.