Decryption
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Decryption is the process of converting encrypted (scrambled) data back into its original readable form. It requires the correct key — without it, the encrypted data is unreadable. Decryption is the counterpart to encryption, and together they form the basis of all secure digital communications.
Encryption and decryption
Original data → [Encryption with key] → Encrypted data
Encrypted data → [Decryption with key] → Original data
Types of encryption/decryption
Symmetric
The same key is used to both encrypt and decrypt. Fast, but requires securely sharing the key beforehand.
Asymmetric (public-key)
Two mathematically linked keys:
- Data encrypted with the public key can only be decrypted with the private key
- Used in SSL/TLS, cryptocurrency wallets, and digital signatures
In cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency doesn't typically encrypt transaction data — the blockchain is public and transparent. However, decryption is used in:
- Wallet software — private keys are often stored in encrypted form; entering your password decrypts them for signing
- Encrypted messaging — some crypto applications use end-to-end encrypted communication
- SSL/TLS — all connections to exchanges, pools, and web wallets use decryption to secure data in transit
