Encryption is the process of converting plain text or any other form of data into a coded version, rendering it unintelligible to unauthorized users. This cryptographic technique is widely used to protect sensitive information as it is transmitted across networks or stored in digital formats. Encryption algorithms transform the original data into an encrypted form, often called "ciphertext," which can only be reverted back to its original state, or "plaintext," using a specific decryption key. There are various types of encryption, including symmetric encryption, where the same key is used for both encrypting and decrypting data, and asymmetric encryption, where different keys are used for each process. Encryption is an essential tool in securing communications over the internet, safeguarding financial transactions, protecting personal information, and maintaining the integrity of various kinds of digital systems. In an era where data breaches and cyber-attacks are prevalent, encryption serves as a fundamental pillar of cybersecurity.