What does the term "cryptographic algorithm" refer to?

The term "cryptographic algorithm" specifically refers to the processes used to encrypt and decrypt data. It encompasses a set of mathematical procedures that transform plaintext (readable data) into ciphertext (scrambled data) to protect the confidentiality of the information being transmitted or stored. This transformation is critical to ensuring that only those with the proper key can reverse the process and access the original data.

For example, symmetric algorithms like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) use the same key for both encryption and decryption, while asymmetric algorithms, such as RSA, utilize a pair of keys (a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption). Understanding cryptographic algorithms is essential for anyone involved in securing communications and information systems, as these algorithms are foundational to creating secure systems in various applications, including online banking, communications, and data storage.

The other terms mentioned, while related to the field of cryptography and information security, do not capture the specific definition of what a cryptographic algorithm is. The science of securing messages encompasses broader concepts, while cybersecurity protocols refer to a set of rules governing secure communications, but neither directly describes the mathematical processes involved in encryption and decryption.