Explanation: Encryption is the process of converting plaintext data into ciphertext using cryptographic algorithms. This ensures that only authorized individuals can access and decipher the information.

Encryption is a cornerstone of secure communications. It is used to protect sensitive data during transmission over networks and while stored on devices. Common encryption protocols include SSL/TLS for secure web browsing and WPA2 for wireless networks.

Modern encryption methods rely on robust algorithms such as AES, RSA, and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) to secure data against unauthorized access.

Additional Information: Encryption can be categorized into symmetric and asymmetric encryption. Symmetric encryption is faster and simpler but requires secure key sharing, while asymmetric encryption provides better security by using key pairs.

Industries such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce heavily rely on encryption to comply with regulations and safeguard customer data.

Formal Definition: Encryption is the process of converting plaintext information into an unreadable format (ciphertext) using cryptographic algorithms to protect it from unauthorized access.