Encryptions Types

Block vs Stream / Asymmetric vs Symmetric

Block

A method of encryption where data is broken down into fixed-size chunks (e.g., 64 bits or 128 bits) before being transformed by the algorithm. It processes these chunks one at a time, rather than bit-by-bit.

Stream

An encryption method that processes data individually—one bit or byte at a time—creating a continuous flow of encrypted output. It is typically faster and uses less processing power than dividing data into chunks.

Cipher

The mathematical algorithm or set of defined steps used to encrypt or decrypt data. It is the engine that converts readable plaintext into unreadable scrambled data.

Asymmetric

A cryptographic system that uses a mathematically related pair of keys: a public key (shared with everyone) and a private key (kept secret). Data encrypted with one key can only be decrypted by the other.

Symmetric

A type of encryption where the sender and receiver rely on the exact same secret key to encrypt and decrypt the message. It is generally faster and more efficient for large amounts of data but requires a secure way to share the key.