Definitions for "Symmetric encryption"
See also encryption. Symmetric encryption involves encrypting and de-crypting information using the same key. It is less processor-intense than asymmetric encryption but requires a key exchange at some stage. Keys have to remain secret anda different key may be required for every entity that communicates with you. Therefore, secure encryption using symmetric keys alone does not scale well. Symmetric keysare often exchanged under cover of asymmetric encryption. See also asymmetric encryption. 6. Glossary T - Z
A method involving a single secret key for both encryption and decryption.
Encryption that uses a single key for both encryption and decryption. Symmetric encryption is preferred when encrypting large amounts of data. Some of the more common symmetric encryption algorithms are RC2, RC4, and Data Encryption Standard (DES). See also public key encryption.