Primary definition
Encryption algorithms using the same secret key for encryption and decryption. Source: NIST SP 800-49
Also known assecret-key encryption · shared-key encryption · private-key encryption · single-key encryption · conventional encryption
3 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 10, 2026
— Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015View source
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CNSSGC
Encryption algorithms using the same secret key for encryption and decryption. Source: NIST SP 800-49
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015 · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Symmetric Encryption Algorithm. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 13, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/symmetric-encryption-algorithm
Sources
3 cited · last checked Aug 10, 2026
01
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
High consensus
02
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Disputed
03
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Multi-source
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