What is the purpose of an encryption key?

The purpose of an encryption key is to encode and decipher encrypted messages. An encryption key is a crucial component in the process of encryption, which involves converting plaintext information into unreadable ciphertext to protect it from unauthorized access. The encryption key is used to transform the data during the encryption process; without it, the encrypted message cannot be converted back into its original form.

When data needs to be accessed or shared securely, the correct encryption key allows authorized users to decrypt the information, returning it to a readable state. This mechanism ensures that only individuals or systems with the proper key can access the original data, thereby maintaining confidentiality and security. Hence, the encryption key is fundamental to both encrypting data and subsequently decrypting it, fulfilling its primary purpose.