Managed IT services in Atlanta is a rapidly evolving field. That’s why many businesses choose to hire experts. Specifically, you may be wondering, what is 256-bit encryption? And more important, is 256 bit encryption secure in the first place?
After all, encryption is one of the most important parts of data security for both you and your business partners.
So let’s dive into 256-bit SSL encryption and how it works. That way you can take the necessary steps to promote maximum security, efficiency, and peace of mind.
256-Bit SSL Encryption 101
256-bit security is the golden standard for security algorithms. It contains keys, a hashing algorithm, and a certificate.
It allows you to encrypt and decrypt data, connecting a user’s browser to a website server. 256-bit refers to the ciphertext contained within. Specifically, it’s the size of the key used to encrypt or decrypt this ciphertext.
Why Is It Called 256-Bit?
The number in this term refers to the key one uses to decrypt and encrypt the ciphertext of a data or file. Other times it can refer to an SHA-2 encryption algorithm, which is the most modern and secure security algorithm available.
Another type of 256-bit encryption is AES encryption. This is an acronym for Advanced Encryption Standard. It uses a block cipher algorithm. Leveraging a symmetric encryption key, only one key is used to encrypt or decrypt the message.
This is actually different from an RSA key, which utilizes an asymmetric key. Furthermore, public key encryption refers to a public and private key. For instance, SSL/TLS is an asymmetric public and private key protocol.
It uses the SSL/TLS handshake to identify that the parties in the data transaction are legitimate and secure. A secure session is created in which data can be confidently exchanged with a lower risk of breach.
Key Size & Significance
Every bit or binary digit is a basic unit of information for technology. It can either represent a 1 or a 0.
Therefore, with 256-bit encryption, there are 256 0s or 1s in a specific order. However that does not mean that there are 256 possible combinations.
There are actually 2256 possible combinations. Essentially, this makes it virtually impossible for a criminal to access this data unless there is a conspiracy.
256-bit certificate doesn’t always mean 256-bit SSL encryption. Sometimes only 128 bits of encryption are provided in the browser. While this is still a significant layer of security, it’s important to understand terminologies and nomenclatures.
Now, which encryption is considered the most secure? Clearly, 256 is preferred. However, in some contexts 128 is the best you can expect. That’s why it’s crucial to have other security measures. Your data security is only as strong as its weakest link.
How Secure Is 256 Bit Encryption? Get More Information
At JETT Business Technology, we help you manage and grow your IT systems with the right strategy. Your information technology can be optimized to meet your business’s needs.
We offer maintenance, installation, and guidance with your technological business operations. So ensure that your company stays safe, productive, and on the cutting edge. Reach out to us today for a consultation.
