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Language Foundation

encryption key

An encryption key is a value that a cryptographic algorithm uses to turn readable data into encrypted data and, depending on the cryptographic system, to turn it back with the same key or with a different related key.

In plain English

It is the specific value that tells a cryptographic process how to change readable information into an unreadable form. In some systems, that same value is used to change it back, while in others a different but related value is used.

In context

Here, "encryption key" means the value the cryptographic system requires to turn the protected data back into readable data, using either that same key or a different related key depending on the system.

Situation
Understanding encryption, privacy, data-sharing, and secure-connection labels
What it communicates
names a required recovery item for protected data

Meaning limits

The term by itself does not state who possesses the value or how it is handled.

Examples

“The software used one encryption key to scramble the file and a different related key to turn it back into readable text.”

Core meaning

“To read the archived letter again, the program needed the encryption key.”

In context

  • cryptographic key Broader Term

    An encryption key is a kind of cryptographic key.

  • decryption key Contrast

    A decryption key is used for turning encrypted data back into readable data.