What is the purpose of using encryption in data security?

The primary purpose of using encryption in data security is to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data. Encryption transforms readable data into an unreadable format using algorithms and keys, which means that only individuals or systems with the appropriate decryption keys can access the original data. This process protects sensitive information from unauthorized access, thereby maintaining its confidentiality.

Moreover, encryption also contributes to data integrity by allowing users to verify whether data has been altered during transmission or storage. If the encrypted data is tampered with, attempting to decrypt it would likely result in incorrect or corrupted data, signaling that integrity has been compromised.

In terms of the other options, enhancing data access speed does not align with the functionality of encryption, as encrypting and decrypting data can introduce latency. Guaranteeing the physical safety of data pertains more to hardware security measures rather than the encryption itself. Similarly, while encryption supports security, it does not replace the need for password protection, as passwords serve as a first line of defense for user authentication regardless of whether the data is encrypted.