An Introduction to Cryptography: Symmetric vs Asymmetric Algorithms

Encoding vs Encryption

It is crucial to distinguish between encoding and encryption:

• Encoding: Converts data into a different format for transmission or storage (e.g., Base64, Hex). It is public and offers no security. Anyone can decode it.
• Encryption: Obfuscates data using mathematical algorithms such that it can only be read by someone possessing the correct key.

1. Symmetric Encryption

Symmetric cryptography uses the **same key** for both encryption and decryption. The key must be shared securely beforehand.

Common algorithms include **AES (Advanced Encryption Standard)** and **DES**.

2. Asymmetric Encryption

Asymmetric cryptography uses a **key pair**: a Public Key (used by anyone to encrypt data) and a Private Key (kept secret by the owner to decrypt data).

Common algorithms include **RSA** and **Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)**.