What are DES and 3DES?
These are encryption algorithms used to “scramble” the data. DES stands for Data Encryption Standard. The difference between DES and 3DES (referred to as “triple DES”) is the size of the key used to encrypt. The larger the key, the harder it is to “crack”. DES uses a 56 bit key while 3DES can use a 168 bit key. In practise this makes 3DES incredibly more secure than DES. While DES has been “cracked” in a day, 3DES would take years to crack using today’s fastest computers. For many applications DES is acceptable. It provides a basic level of security without slowing down the connection. Higher encryption such as 3DES will need more computer power and bandwidth so that you do not notice delays in your data throughput. This depends very much on your circumstances.
