What is the primary goal of data encryption?

The primary goal of data encryption is to prevent unauthorized access to data. Encryption transforms readable data, or plaintext, into an unreadable format, known as ciphertext, using algorithms and encryption keys. This process secures the data from unauthorized users, ensuring that even if the data is intercepted or accessed in atypical circumstances, it remains unintelligible without the correct decryption key.

Data encryption is a critical component of information security because it protects sensitive information such as personal identification numbers, financial records, and confidential communications from potential breaches and exposure. While some might think that encryption could have benefits like improving data storage efficiency, increasing transfer speed, or reducing backup needs, these are not its primary purposes. The essence of encryption lies in safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of the data rather than optimizing other aspects of data handling.