Symmetric vs Asymmetric Encryption
|
Type |
Description |
Example |
Used In |
|
Symmetric |
Same key for locking and unlocking. Fast but risky if key is stolen. |
Caesar Cipher, AES |
File encryption |
|
Asymmetric |
One public key (to lock) and one private key (to unlock). Safer for Internet. |
RSA, PGP |
HTTPS, email security |
Analogy:
- Symmetric: one key for both you and your friend — but if someone copies it, they can read everything.
- Asymmetric: you give everyone a public box to lock letters inside, but only you have the key to open it.
