What does "encryption" mean in programming?

encryption is one of the most common terms in software development. This guide explains what it means, how it is used in practice, and why it matters, with real examples from the developer world.

Definition

The process of converting readable data into an encoded format that can only be read by someone who has the decryption key. Encryption protects data in transit (HTTPS) and at rest (encrypted databases).

Example

"Enable database encryption to protect sensitive data if the server is compromised."

Word forms

Form	Type	Meaning	Example
encrypt	verb (infinitive)	To convert data into a coded format that can only be read with a key	"Encrypt the user's credit card number before storing it."
encrypted	past tense / adjective	Already converted to an unreadable format	"All passwords are stored encrypted in the database."
encrypting	gerund	In the process of converting data to a coded format	"Encrypting data at rest protects it if the database is compromised."

Related terms

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