The difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption

 Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption, making it faster and easier to implement, but less secure as the key must be shared. Common algorithms include AES and Blowfish. Its primary disadvantage is the difficulty in securely sharing the key.

Asymmetric encryption, or public key cryptography, employs a pair of keys—a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption—enhancing security since the keys do not need to be shared. It is slower and more complex but more secure, suitable for smaller data like digital signatures and email. Common algorithms include RSA and DSA.

Symmetric encryption is faster and simpler, ideal for large data volumes, while asymmetric encryption, being more secure, is better for secure key exchange and smaller data. Symmetric encryption's main challenge is key distribution, whereas asymmetric encryption’s challenge lies in its slower performance and complexity.

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