# Encryption

*noun*

say it: **“en-KRIP-shun”** **/ɪnˈkrɪpʃən/**

Scrambling data with a key so only someone with the right key can read it again.

## What is **Encryption**?

**Encryption** — Scrambling data with a key so that only someone with the right key can turn it back. Unlike hashing, it's meant to be undone: HTTPS encrypts each request so only the server can read it.

## In a sentence

- “HTTPS uses **encryption**, so nobody on the network can read the card number.”

Level: Apprentice · [More Web Development terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary?category=web-development&level=2)

Updated: October 28, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/encryption