What is meant by "encryption at rest"?

Encryption at rest refers specifically to the practice of encrypting data that is stored on a device or within a database. This means that the data is secured while it is not actively being accessed or transmitted, ensuring that even if unauthorized access occurs to the physical storage medium, the information remains protected and unreadable without the proper decryption keys.

When data is encrypted at rest, it is an essential security measure to mitigate risks related to data breaches, loss, or theft. This type of encryption focuses on safeguarding sensitive information that is stored but not actively being used, making it an important aspect of data security protocols.

In contrast, the other options describe different scenarios: encrypting data during transmission protects data as it moves between locations, live streaming encryption deals with ongoing data flow, and sharing with third-party services typically involves communicating data securely rather than focusing solely on stored data. Therefore, the emphasis on data that is stored securely within a device or database aligns precisely with the concept of encryption at rest.