CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

What role does encryption play for data at rest?

1. It speeds up data retrieval

2. It protects data from unauthorized access

3. It reduces storage costs

4. It ensures data recovery

The correct answer is: It protects data from unauthorized access

Encryption for data at rest plays a critical role in protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. When data is stored, whether on physical devices or in cloud storage, encryption transforms that data into a format that is unreadable without the appropriate decryption key. This means that even if an unauthorized individual gains access to the storage medium, they will not be able to interpret or utilize the encrypted data without the necessary credentials. This is particularly important in environments where data breaches can lead to significant financial loss, reputational damage, or legal consequences. By implementing encryption, organizations maintain compliance with regulatory requirements regarding data protection and build a robust defense against threats such as data theft or leakage. In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the primary purpose of encryption for data at rest. For instance, while encryption may have some impact on the speed of data retrieval, its main function is not to enhance performance. Similarly, while some types of encryption technology could potentially reduce costs in specific contexts, the primary aim is security. Lastly, encryption does not guarantee data recovery; rather, it secures data from exposure during storage, and recovery would often involve additional processes and tools independent of the encryption itself.