What is the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption?

The distinction between symmetric and asymmetric encryption largely revolves around the number of keys used in the encryption and decryption processes, which is encapsulated in the concept of having one key versus two.

In symmetric encryption, the same key is used for both encrypting and decrypting the data. This means that both the sender and receiver must securely share this key prior to any communication. The efficiency of symmetric encryption allows it to perform its operations quickly due to the singular focus on one key, which is the reason it is often preferred for encrypting large amounts of data.

Conversely, asymmetric encryption, also known as public key cryptography, employs a pair of keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. This dual-key mechanism enables secure key distribution, as the public key can be shared openly while the private key remains confidential.

The assertion that symmetric uses one key while asymmetric uses two keys accurately encapsulates a fundamental difference between these two encryption methods. This key management is critical in determining their application, security, and performance in various contexts.