Difference Between Cryptography and Network Security

Difference Between Cryptography and Network Security

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Anshuman
Anshuman Singh
Senior Executive - Content
Updated on Mar 19, 2024 14:57 IST

Cryptography and network security are important terms related to cybersecurity, and many of us often use both these words interchangeably. But, it’s not correct. Cryptography and network security are two different concepts that are implemented using different techniques and for different purposes.

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The main difference between cryptography and network security is that cryptography is a way or method of concealing information so that no one else can see it except the intended recipient. In contrast, network security is a way or method of protecting the integrity and safety of network and its components in order to avoid various attacks, such as DoS attacks.

Before diving deeper into understanding these two terms, let’s go through the list of topics listed under the table of contents(TOC) we will cover in this article. Here’s the table:

Table of Contents (TOC)

You can also explore- What is Cybersecurity?

Difference Between Cryptography and Network Security 

Let’s cover the difference between cryptography and network security in a tabular format for a better understanding. Here’s the table:

Benchmark Cryptography Network Security
Definition It is a method of concealing information so that no one else can see it except the intended recipient It is a method of protecting the integrity and safety of the network and its components to avoid various attacks, such as DoS attacks.
Purpose It uses mathematical algorithms and protocols to scramble data, making it unreadable to unauthorized users. It uses various protocols and techniques, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, etc., in order to protect the network and its component from unauthorized access.
Integration You can use cryptography with or without network security measures to ensure secure communication. You cannot implement network security measures without considering the cryptographic aspects of securing data transmission.
Techniques Encryption, decryption, digital signatures, and key management. Authentication, authorization, data encryption, and intrusion detection.
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What is Cryptography? 

Cryptography Definition: Cryptography is a method of securing communication from unauthorized access or modification. 

Cryptography is used in various settings, such as online banking, messaging apps, emails, etc., to keep sensitive information private and secure. It involves using mathematical algorithms to scramble and encode data, making it unreadable to anyone who doesn’t have the key to unlock it.

There are mainly three types of cryptography, such as:

  • Symmetric key cryptography
  • Asymmetric key cryptography
  • Hashing

For more information, you can also explore: What are Different Types of Cryptography?

In layman’s terms, cryptography is a method of encoding messages so that only those who are meant to receive them can understand them.

You can also explore: Encryption and Decryption:concept,and Key Differencs

What is Network Security?

Network Security Definition: Network Security is a method to protect the network and the devices connected to it from unauthorized access and attacks. 

By implementing proper and robust network security, you can be assured that no unauthorized user can access or modify sensitive data. Thus ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network and its resources.

In order to implement robust network security, various technologies are used, such as 

The main goal behind using these technologies is to create a secure environment for users to communicate and share information without worrying about unauthorized access or malicious activity.

In layman’s terms, network security is a method that protects the client’s data by ensuring that hackers can not get into your network easily.

You can also explore: Types Of Hackers To Be Aware Of In 2023

Key Differences Between Cryptography and Network Security 

Here are the key differences between cryptography and network security:

  • Cryptography secures communication over the network, but network security protects against malware, viruses, and unauthorized access attempts.
  • Cryptography protects data and ensures its confidentiality, integrity, and authentication. In contrast, network security protects the network infrastructure from attacks.
  • Network security uses firewalls, IDS, IPS, etc., to protect the network with its components, whereas cryptography uses algorithms and protocols to cipher the data.
  • Network security uses authentication, authorization, data encryption, and intrusion detection techniques. In comparison, cryptography uses encryption, decryption, digital signatures, and key management techniques.
  • You can use cryptography with or without network security measures to ensure secure communication. In comparison, you cannot implement network security measures without considering the cryptographic aspects of securing data transmission.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored what cryptography and network security terms are in cybersecurity. We have also explored the difference between cryptography and network security in great detail. If you have any queries related to the topic, please feel free to send your queries to us in the form of a comment. We will be happy to help.

Happy Learning!!

About the Author
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Anshuman Singh
Senior Executive - Content

Anshuman Singh is an accomplished content writer with over three years of experience specializing in cybersecurity, cloud computing, networking, and software testing. Known for his clear, concise, and informative wr... Read Full Bio