Understanding the encryption and encoding difference is easier than it sounds. Both encryption and encoding change the way data looks, but they serve very different purposes. Encoding makes data readable by different systems, while encryption keeps data secret from anyone who shouldn’t see it.
What is Encoding?
- Purpose: Make data usable or readable by computers and other systems.
- Not secret: Anyone who knows the method can decode it.
- Example: Turning
Hellointo Base64 →SGVsbG8=. Anyone who knows Base64 can decode it back.
Think of it like: Writing your message in a language that anyone who understands it can read.
What is Encryption?
- Purpose: Keep data safe and private.
- Requires a key: Only someone with the key can decrypt it.
- Example: Encrypting
Hello→X7!@9sdQ. Only the person with the secret key can getHelloback.
Think of it like: Locking your message in a safe and giving the key only to the person you trust.
Quick Comparison Table
| Aspect | Encoding | Encryption |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Make data readable | Keep data secret |
| Need a key? | No | Yes |
| Anyone can decode? | Yes | No |
| Example | Base64, URL encode | AES, RSA |