AES-256

The AES-256 encryption standard, part of the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), serves as a robust and secure method for encrypting digital data. This standard employs a symmetric key algorithm, meaning the same key is used for both the encryption and decryption processes. The '256' in AES-256 refers to the key size, which is 256 bits. This size is significant as it provides a higher level of security than its counterparts, AES-128AES-128: AES-128 encryption, also known as Advanced Encryption Standard 128-bit, is a symmetric encryption algorithm widely recognised for its high level of security. It utilises a block cipher method, where data is divided into 128-bit blocks, each of which is then encrypted using a secret key that is 128… and AES-192. The larger the key size, the more possible combinations, making it more difficult for potential attackers to crack the encryption. AES-256 operates through multiple rounds of transformation. Each round involves substitution, permutation, mixing, and key addition. The number of rounds depends on the key size, with AES-256 requiring 14 rounds. This encryption standard is widely used globally in various applications, including secure file transfer, VPN, and secure email services. It is recognised and approved by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and is considered secure against all known practical attacks when used correctly.