In what context is the term 'cipher' typically used?

The term 'cipher' is typically used in the context of a method for encrypting data. In cryptography, a cipher is an algorithm that transforms plaintext into ciphertext, making the information unreadable to unauthorized parties. This transformation is crucial for securing sensitive information and ensuring confidentiality.

Ciphers can involve various techniques, including substitution (replacing elements of the plaintext with other elements) and transposition (rearranging the order of elements). The effectiveness and security of a cipher depend on its complexity and the method used to generate a key that is required for both the encryption and decryption processes.

Understanding the concept of ciphers is fundamental in the field of encryption, as they directly relate to securing communication and data. This distinguishes the term from other areas, such as data storage methods, network attacks, or user permissions, which do not relate directly to the mechanism of encryption.