In the context of encryption, what is the primary difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption?

Answer options:

Symmetric uses the same key for encryption and decryption; Asymmetric uses a public/private key pair.

Symmetric is slower but more secure; Asymmetric is faster but less secure.

Symmetric is used for digital signatures; Asymmetric is used for bulk data encryption.

Symmetric keys can be shared publicly; Asymmetric keys must be kept secret.

How to approach this question

Symmetric = Same (1 key). Asymmetric = Different (2 keys).

Full Answer

A.Symmetric uses the same key for encryption and decryption; Asymmetric uses a public/private key pair.✓ Correct

Symmetric encryption (e.g., AES) uses one shared secret key. Asymmetric encryption (e.g., RSA) uses a mathematically related pair: a public key to encrypt and a private key to decrypt.

Common mistakes

Confusing which is faster (Symmetric is faster).

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