How do encryption keys work in securing data transmission?

Encryption keys work by transforming readable data into unreadable data, ensuring secure transmission by preventing unauthorised access.

In more detail, encryption keys are an essential part of cryptography, a method used to secure data transmission. They function by converting plaintext data into ciphertext, which is unreadable without the correct key. This process is known as encryption. The key is a string of random bits created specifically for scrambling and unscrambling data.

There are two types of encryption keys: symmetric and asymmetric. Symmetric keys use the same key for both encryption and decryption. This means that the sender and receiver must both have access to the key, which can pose a security risk if the key is intercepted during transmission.

Asymmetric keys, on the other hand, use a pair of keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. The public key can be freely distributed as it is only used for encryption, while the private key is kept secret by the owner. This method is more secure as the decryption key is never transmitted. However, it is slower than symmetric encryption due to the complexity of the algorithms used.

The strength of an encryption key is determined by its size, measured in bits. The larger the key, the more potential combinations there are, making it harder for an attacker to guess the key through brute force.

In the context of data transmission, encryption keys are used to secure data as it travels over networks. When data is sent from one location to another, it is encrypted using the sender's key. Upon reaching its destination, the data is decrypted using the receiver's key. This ensures that even if the data is intercepted during transmission, it cannot be read without the correct key.

In conclusion, encryption keys play a crucial role in securing data transmission. They transform readable data into unreadable data, preventing unauthorised access and ensuring that information can be safely transmitted over networks.