Encryption Key

In cryptography, an encryption key is a string of characters used in combination with an algorithm to transform plaintext (unencrypted data) into ciphertext (encrypted data) and vice versa for decryption algorithms. It alters data so that it appears random and “locks” it so that only the corresponding key can decrypt it. Keys can also specify transformations in other algorithms, such as digital signature schemes and message authentication codes. An encryption key is also simply referred to as a key.

A key is used to encrypt, decrypt, or carry out both functions based on the encryption software used. The longer a key is, the harder it is to crack the encryption code. Eighty bits is considered the minimum key length for sufficient security;128-bit keys are the most common key length and are considered very strong. 

In the past, ciphertext was created by replacing one letter with another letter in plaintext, and keys consisted of a random string of numbers. Now, ciphertext uses complex, mathematical formulas (algorithms), and keys are much more randomized to scramble text beyond human recognition. To prevent a key from being guessed, it needs to be truly randomized and contain sufficient entropy

Encryption key vs. password

An encryption key is not the same as a password. The main difference between the two is that a password is created, read, and remembered by a human user, while a key is used by the software that implements the algorithm, meaning it does not have to be readable by a human. Passwords aren’t near as secure as encryption keys as they are easier to organically guess. Sensitive data should be encrypted with a key, and passwords should be used for things such as account logins and password vaults. 

Webopedia Staff
Webopedia Staff
Since 1995, more than 100 tech experts and researchers have kept Webopedia’s definitions, articles, and study guides up to date. For more information on current editorial staff, please visit our About page.
Get the Free Newsletter
Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
This email address is invalid.
Get the Free Newsletter
Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
This email address is invalid.

Related Articles

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts a device's Internet access through a secure server. It is most frequently used for remote employees accessing a...

Gantt Chart

A Gantt chart is a type of bar chart that illustrates a project schedule and shows the dependency between tasks and the current schedule...

Input Sanitization

Input sanitization is a cybersecurity measure of checking, cleaning, and filtering data inputs from users, APIs, and web services of any unwanted characters and...

IT Asset Management Software

IT asset management software (ITAM software) is an application for organizing, recording, and tracking all of an organization s hardware and software assets throughout...

ScalaHosting

ScalaHosting is a leading managed hosting provider that offers secure, scalable, and affordable...

HRIS

Human resources information system (HRIS) solutions help businesses manage multiple facets of their...

Best Managed Service Providers...

In today's business world, managed services are more critical than ever. They can...