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---
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.
|
