Which mechanism helps to protect data confidentiality and integrity during transmission?

Encryption is the process that helps protect data confidentiality and integrity during transmission by transforming readable data into an unreadable format using algorithms and keys. This ensures that even if the data is intercepted during transit, it cannot be understood or tampered with by unauthorized parties.

When encryption is applied, the original data (plaintext) is converted into ciphertext, which is only reversible back to plaintext through the decryption process, which requires a specific key. This adds a layer of security, as both confidentiality (keeping data private) and integrity (ensuring data is not altered) are maintained.

For example, when sensitive information, such as credit card numbers or personal identification, is transmitted over the internet, encryption ensures that even if the data packets are intercepted, they remain secure and unreadable to any unauthorized users.

In contrast, firewalls act as a barrier to protect networks from unauthorized access but do not encrypt data. Access lists define who can access certain resources but do not provide protection for the data being transmitted. Switching, while essential for directing packet traffic within networks, does not provide any protective mechanisms for data confidentiality or integrity.