Which of the following is a common type of encryption algorithm?

The correct answer identifies AES as a common type of encryption algorithm and recognizes that SHA-256 and MD5 are not encryption algorithms but rather hashing algorithms.

AES, or Advanced Encryption Standard, is widely used for secure data encryption and is notable for its strength and efficiency. It operates on fixed block sizes and supports different key sizes (128, 192, or 256 bits), making it appropriate for a wide range of applications, from securing sensitive government data to protecting information in commercial transactions.

SHA-256 and MD5 are part of the cryptographic hash functions category. While they are vital for integrity checks and ensuring data has not been altered, they don't directly provide confidentiality of the data itself, which is the primary function of encryption algorithms like AES.

Understanding these distinctions highlights the importance of AES as a robust encryption standard commonly utilized across various industries for protecting sensitive data.