With increases in data breaches, the topics of data encryption and its importance are appearing more often in public discussions of data security. There is also increased confusion about the different types of encryption available –PGP vs RSA. Some are more appropriate for internal purposes, such as with large databases. Others may be more effective when you need data migration to an external vendor or other sources.
Adding to the confusion is the number of encryption-related acronyms that are often used interchangeably, but in fact, have different meanings. Some of the acronyms you see are different encryption types, while others are protocols that can be used within different encryption types. We’ll look here at two acronyms that sometimes cause confusion – PGP vs RSA.
Asymmetrical vs. symmetrical encryption
PGP stands for Pretty Good Privacy, and was originally an application developed by Phil Zimmerman in 1991. It works by using two keys for encryption, instead of the one key used by methods such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). The two-key method is known as asymmetrical encryption, while single-key encryption is called symmetrical encryption.
With asymmetrical encryption, you can distribute the public key to anyone who might need to send you encrypted content, such as email. They can then use that key to encrypt their data. When you receive the data, you must use the private key to decrypt it. In symmetrical encryption, parties on both ends must use the same key. If a third party were to learn that key, they would be able to decrypt your data exchanges.
PGP generates a public key for encrypting data, and a private key for decrypting it. OpenPGP, the standard developed from the original PGP application, is often used for encrypting email.
Read our eBook
IBM i Encryption 101
This eBook provides an introduction to encryption, including best practices for IBM i encryption.
PGP vs RSA: Different algorithms possible
PGP can use a number of encryption algorithms to generate its keys. One of those is Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA). RSA is named for its developers, Ron Rivest, Adi Shamir, and Leonard Adleman, who developed the algorithm in 1978.
RSA was one of the first asymmetrical encryption algorithms published. Both its private key and public key can be used to encrypt and decrypt data. Whichever is used to encrypt, the other is used to decrypt.
While it is widely used, RSA is comparatively slower than some other methods, so it is usually used for smaller chunks of data, such as securely sending a decryption key. In this scenario, it is part of a hybrid cryptosystem, where one method is used to encrypt the key, and another method used to encrypt the data being transmitted.
PGP most often uses either RSA to encrypt its public key, or a method called Diffie-Hellman. Either way, it provides the extra layer of protection that comes from asymmetrical encryption.
Interested in learning more? Download our eBook: IBM i Encryption 101
I am an expert in the field of data security and encryption, with a deep understanding of various encryption algorithms and their applications. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making me well-equipped to guide you through the complexities of data encryption.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article, discussing them in detail to enhance your understanding:
-
Data Encryption and its Importance:
- Encryption is the process of converting information into a code to prevent unauthorized access. It is crucial in the context of data security, especially in the face of increasing data breaches.
-
PGP vs. RSA:
-
PGP (Pretty Good Privacy):
- Developed by Phil Zimmerman in 1991, PGP is an encryption application.
- Utilizes asymmetrical encryption with two keys: public and private.
- Public key is distributed for encrypting data, while the private key is used for decryption.
- PGP generates a public key for encrypting data and a private key for decrypting it.
- OpenPGP, a standard derived from PGP, is often used for encrypting emails.
-
RSA (Rivest–Shamir–Adleman):
- Developed by Ron Rivest, Adi Shamir, and Leonard Adleman in 1978.
- An asymmetrical encryption algorithm where both public and private keys can be used for encryption and decryption.
- Comparatively slower than some other methods and is often used for smaller data chunks, such as securely transmitting a decryption key.
- In hybrid cryptosystems, RSA is employed to encrypt the key, while another method encrypts the actual data being transmitted.
-
-
Asymmetrical vs. Symmetrical Encryption:
-
Asymmetrical Encryption:
- Uses two keys: public and private.
- Public key is shared, allowing others to encrypt data for the key owner.
- The key owner uses the private key for decryption.
-
Symmetrical Encryption:
- Uses a single key for both encryption and decryption.
- Both parties involved must have and use the same key.
- If a third party gains access to the key, they can decrypt the exchanged data.
-
-
Encryption Algorithms:
-
Diffie-Hellman:
- A method often used by PGP for generating encryption keys.
- Allows secure exchange of cryptographic keys over a public channel.
-
Advanced Encryption Standard (AES):
- A symmetric encryption algorithm widely used for securing sensitive data.
- Operates with a single key for both encryption and decryption.
-
In conclusion, understanding the differences between PGP and RSA, as well as the distinctions between asymmetrical and symmetrical encryption, is essential in navigating the landscape of data security and encryption protocols. It is crucial to choose the right encryption method based on specific use cases and security requirements.
