An encryption algorithm is a mathematical procedure used to transform plaintext (readable data) into ciphertext (encoded data) to ensure its confidentiality, integrity, and security. This process makes the data unreadable to unauthorized users, and only those with the correct decryption key can revert it back to its original form.

Encryption algorithms are essential in securing sensitive information, such as personal data, financial transactions, and communications, against unauthorized access or cyber threats. They are widely used in applications like secure messaging, online banking, and data storage.

Key Components of Encryption

1. Plaintext: The original, unencrypted data.

2. Encryption Algorithm: The method used to encode the plaintext into ciphertext.

3. Encryption Key: A secret value used by the algorithm to perform encryption.

4. Ciphertext: The encrypted, unreadable version of the plaintext.

Types of Encryption Algorithms

1. Symmetric Encryption: Uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. Examples include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and Blowfish. It is faster but requires secure key sharing.

2. Asymmetric Encryption: Uses a pair of keys—public for encryption and private for decryption. Examples include RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography). It is more secure for key exchange but computationally intensive.