What is the role of encryption in data security?

Encryption plays a critical role in data security by securing data during transmission and storage. When data is encrypted, it is transformed into a format that is not easily readable or interpretable without the proper decryption key. This ensures that even if unauthorized individuals access the data—whether it's being sent over the internet or stored on a device or server—they cannot make sense of it without the necessary decryption credentials.

This process protects sensitive information such as personal details, financial data, and confidential communications from cyber threats, ensuring that data integrity and privacy are maintained. In today's digital age, where data breaches and cyberattacks are prevalent, encryption serves as a fundamental layer of security, making it a critical component in safeguarding information against unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.

Other options focus on aspects that do not accurately represent the purpose of encryption in the context of data security. For instance, preventing users from recovering lost data does not relate to encryption's goal, nor does increasing network speed, as encryption can sometimes introduce latency. Additionally, while strong passwords are important for security, encryption does not eliminate the need for them; both are essential elements that work together to protect data.