What is Data Encryption?

Summit Blog What is data encryption

Encryption scrambles up existing data so that only authorized people can understand it. Encryption is actually a form of steganography, a fancy word for hiding secret data in plain sight. Think about using invisible ink to write a secret message to a spy, for example, or using a code to translate a message only specific parties can understand. Encryption is a valuable tool of cybersecurity; in fact, there’s an entire profession devoted to it! Cryptographers are cybersecurity professionals who create the algorithms and ciphers needed to encrypt data.

Data encryption is the process of converting plaintext data into a form that is unreadable to anyone without the proper decryption key. Encryption is used to protect the confidentiality of data, ensuring that only authorized parties can access it.

There are two main types of encryption: symmetric and asymmetric. With symmetric encryption, the same key is used to both encrypt and decrypt the data. This means that the key must be kept secret, as anyone with access to it would be able to decrypt the encrypted data. Asymmetric encryption, on the other hand, uses two different keys: a public key that is used to encrypt the data, and a private key that is used to decrypt it. This allows for secure communication even if the public key is widely known, as only the owner of the private key is able to decrypt the data.

Encryption is an important tool for protecting the confidentiality of sensitive data, such as financial transactions, personal information, and government secrets. It is used in a variety of contexts, including online communication, storage of data in the cloud, and secure transmission of data over networks.

Posted in ,
Ready to Chat?

Get a jumpstart by connecting with one of Summit's Salesforce Certified Experts today.

"Easy to Work With"
Angie W.

Northwoods worked with Summit to help migrate our Microsoft Dynamics CRM system to Salesforce.  Mike and his team were extremely knowledgeable, thorough, and easy to work with.  They were able to help us configure the system to handle complex business processes while making the system easy for end users.  They were also able to migrate all our legacy Dynamics data to the new Salesforce system.  Summit helped train our technical team on Salesforce administration while keeping the project on time and under budget.  I highly recommend Summit for any Salesforce-related project.

"Mind Blowing!"
Rachael H.

As a leader of a small non-profit aimed to scale rapidly and efficiently, I knew it was critical to transition from antiquated spreadsheets to a sophisticated CRM. We dabbled in Salesforce on our own the year prior. To put it mildly, I was terrified to go there again. Mike and his team at Summit met my apprehension with confidence and reassurance. They were timely, efficient and positioned us to utilize Salesforce in ways we hadn’t imagined. Every day I’m in awe of what Salesforce can do; to Mike’s credit for imparting his wisdom. Summit has positioned us for unprecedented opportunities at Walk with a Doc. Thank you!

"BEST Salesforce Consultant Available"
Catherine Z.

We went through 3 consultants before finding Summit. The difference was night and day, and the cost was very reasonable. They helped us get our Communities up and running in less than a week (after 2 other teams essentially dragged their feet for 9 months - yes, 9 months!). We are ecstatic! We also have Managed Services with them, for a few hundred bucks a month they are our go-to for anything Salesforce. The team is INSTANTLY responsive - like within 2 minutes. I have experienced other consultants and can tell you, there is no comparison. Hire Summit!

"Did a Wonderful Job"
Paige B.

We have primarily been using Salesforce for our sales team. Recently we decided to bring our support team on and Summit did an awesome job helping us get everything set up the way we needed.

"Great Learning and Implementation"
Annette H.

Great experience with Summit. They are very knowledgeable about Salesforce and their turn around is outstanding. I am looking forward to working Part 2 of our plan with them.

"Transformation Data w/ Excellent Service"
Kay W.

The skill set and knowledge that Mike Leibrand has brought to this project far surpasses our initial expectation- especially since our initial contact with Salesforce corp. was challenged in regards to utilizing training videos to suit our scope and need. Mike has been helpful in supporting our team with a custom solution in order for us to be able to serve our community better. He is timely and professional, and eager to learn about the why before telling us the what.

"Made our Dream CRM a Reality!"
Matt S.

Mike and his team at Summit Tech made our Salesforce dream a reality. As a small non-profit on a limited budget with very specific CRM needs we were challenged to find a suitable Salesforce partner. Fortunately we were introduced to Summit Tech, and from day one they made the formidable task of implementing Salesforce doable (and even enjoyable!). Mike is a pro, from his accessibility and communication to industry knowledge and attitude, he never said 'no' to a request. When we encountered hiccups along the way he took the time to trouble shoot and make fixes, even when it was outside the original scope of the project. We didn't deviate from the project timeline or budget, which says a lot considering our custom needs for data collection/reporting, donor communication, and third party plug-ins. If you are considering implementing Salesforce or have any Salesforce needs, I highly recommend Mike and his team.

Name(Required)