What is the role of encryption in data security?

Encryption plays a critical role in data security by transforming sensitive information into a coded format that is unreadable without the proper decryption key or method. This process ensures that even if the data is intercepted or accessed by unauthorized individuals, it remains secure and protected from misuse.

When data is encrypted, it becomes practically impossible for anyone without the appropriate encryption key to interpret or make sense of the information. This is especially vital for protecting sensitive information such as financial records, personal identification, and confidential business data. The use of encryption thus serves as a foundational measure in safeguarding data integrity and confidentiality, reflecting its essential importance within the broader context of cybersecurity.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of encryption. Improving network connection speeds focuses on performance rather than security. Creating backups is about data redundancy, not protection during transmission. Ensuring compatibility between different operating systems deals with interoperability, which does not relate to the coding and securing of sensitive information that encryption provides.