![Crypto Terms Glossary: What is Encryption? Crypto Terms Glossary: What is Encryption?](/img/128/505/what-is-encryption-sm.webp)
Encryption refers to technical processes that secure data and systems, and make it more difficult for hackers to gain unauthorized access to information, or meddle with networks and transactions. In modern cryptography, encryption generally entails the conversion of what is known as "plaintext" into "ciphertext." Encryption is a means of encoding information so that only authorized parties can understand it.