Which process is used to ensure data integrity?

The process that is used to ensure data integrity is data authentication. Data integrity refers to the accuracy and consistency of data throughout its lifecycle. Data authentication is crucial because it involves verifying the identity of a user or the source of data, ensuring that the data has not been altered or corrupted during transmission or storage.

When data is authenticated, systems can detect whether the information is genuine and has not been tampered with. This is often accomplished through various methods, such as checksums, digital signatures, or other verification techniques that help confirm that the data remains intact and reliable.

In contrast, while data representation pertains to how data is formatted or structured, and data encryption is focused on converting data into a secure format to protect it from unauthorized access, these processes do not directly ensure the integrity of the data itself. Data processing refers to manipulating or handling data to obtain meaningful information but does not inherently verify its authenticity or integrity. Therefore, data authentication is the key process specifically aimed at ensuring data integrity.