Which of the following best describes encryption in cybersecurity?

Encryption in cybersecurity is fundamentally the process of making data unreadable to unauthorized users. This is achieved by converting the original data, known as plaintext, into an encoded version called ciphertext using algorithms and encryption keys. The primary purpose of encryption is to protect sensitive information from being accessed by individuals who do not have the proper authorization, ensuring confidentiality and data security.

This process is crucial in various scenarios, such as safeguarding communication over the internet, securing stored data, and protecting sensitive information during transactions. By employing encryption, organizations can mitigate risks associated with data breaches and unauthorized access, ultimately maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of their information.

While other options touch on aspects of data security, they do not encapsulate the essence of encryption. For instance, transforming data into a public format refers to making data openly accessible, which is contrary to the core principle of encryption. Removing sensitive information from a database is more aligned with data sanitization than with encryption, and limiting access to software applications pertains to access control mechanisms rather than encryption techniques.