What is the goal of data encryption in network security?

The goal of data encryption in network security is primarily to protect data from unauthorized access. This process transforms readable data into an encoded format that can only be deciphered by someone who possesses the correct decryption key. By using encryption, organizations ensure that even if data is intercepted during transmission or accessed from unauthorized locations, the information remains secure and unreadable to those without authorization.

While the other choices might seem relevant, they do not accurately represent the fundamental purpose of encryption. Making data more accessible is contrary to the principles of security; effective security measures often require limiting access to ensure data integrity and confidentiality. Hiding data from users can lead to challenges in usability and does not align with the preventive measures intended by encryption practices. Improving network speed is not a direct goal of encryption, as encrypting data often involves additional processing, which can introduce latency rather than enhance speed.

Ultimately, encryption is a critical component in safeguarding sensitive information against breaches, thereby maintaining trust and compliance with security protocols in network environments.