When we talk about "data at rest," we're referring to data that is stored on a device or a backup and is not actively moving from network to network or being processed. Think of it as your digital data taking a nap on your hard drive, USB stick, or cloud storage. Much like a bear hibernating, just because it's static doesn't mean it's safe from threat. Enter: encryption.
The Role of Encryption in Protecting Data at Rest
Encryption is the digital equivalent of a high-security lock on your files, only allowing access to those who have the right key. It works by converting the original representation of the information, known as plaintext, into an alternative form known as ciphertext. This ciphertext appears as a random string of characters to anyone who doesn't have authorization.