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diff --git a/src/content/docs/guides/symmetric-encrypt-decrypt.mdx b/src/content/docs/guides/symmetric-encrypt-decrypt.mdx new file mode 100644 index 0000000..88606ed --- /dev/null +++ b/src/content/docs/guides/symmetric-encrypt-decrypt.mdx @@ -0,0 +1,101 @@ +--- +title: Symmetric Encryption & Decryption +sidebar: + label: Symmetric Crypto +--- + +## What Is Symmetric Encryption? + +**Symmetric encryption** is a method of securing data where the **same +password** is used to both encrypt and decrypt information. + +Unlike **asymmetric encryption**, which uses a public/private key pair, +symmetric encryption relies on a single shared secret (the password). This +approach is: + +- Fast and efficient +- Ideal for large files or quick one-time sharing +- Best used when both parties can safely share the password + +> If someone intercepts the password, the encrypted data is no longer secure — +> so always handle password exchange carefully. + +## How It Works + +1. You choose a **strong password**. +2. That password is used to **encrypt** the data. +3. Anyone with the **same password** can **decrypt** it. +4. No key pair is required — only the shared password. + +> Encryption security depends entirely on the strength and secrecy of the +> password used. + +## Encrypting Data Symmetrically + +To encrypt text using symmetric encryption in GpgFrontend (v2.1.9 and later): + +### Enable Symmetric Encryption Feature + +1. Go to the Settings. +2. Under the Appearance tab, check the `Sym. Encrypt` checkbox to enable + symmetric encryption functionality. + + + +### Access the Symmetric Encryption Button + +After enabling, you’ll see a dedicated `Sym. Encrypt` button on the main +interface. + + + +### Enter the Text or Select a File + +- Input the plaintext you wish to protect in the text editor. +- Select a file to encrypt using the file panel. + +### Symmetric Encryption + +1. Without selecting any public key, click the `Sym. Encrypt` button. +2. When prompted, enter a strong, unique password. +3. This password becomes your encryption key. +4. The text or file will be encrypted into ciphertext. +5. You can save or share the encrypted result. + + + +> The recipient will need the **exact same password** to decrypt the message. + +## Decrypting Symmetric Encrypted Data + +To decrypt content that was encrypted symmetrically: + +1. Paste the Ciphertext: The message should begin with `-----BEGIN PGP + MESSAGE-----` and end with `-----END PGP MESSAGE-----`. +2. Initiate Decryption: Choose to decrypt the message. +3. Enter the Password: Input the **same password** that was used for encryption. +4. View the Plaintext: If the password is correct, the original message will be + revealed. + +> If the password is incorrect or mistyped, decryption will fail. + +## When to Use Symmetric Encryption? + +Symmetric encryption is a great choice when: + +- You’re encrypting something **for yourself** (e.g. storing private notes or + backup files). +- You’re sharing data over a **secure channel**, and can **safely provide the + password**. +- You don’t want to manage public/private key infrastructure. + +However, it is **not ideal** for public communication where secure password +exchange is difficult. + +## Tips for Better Security + +- Always use a **strong, complex password** (longer is better). +- Never send passwords through insecure channels (e.g., unencrypted email). +- Consider using symmetric encryption as a supplement to public-key encryption — + e.g., encrypt a file symmetrically, then encrypt the password with the + recipient’s public key. |