Data Encryption Standard (DES)
The Data Encryption Standard (DES) is a symmetric-key algorithm for the encryption of electronic data. Introduced in 1977, DES was among the first encryption algorithms made publicly available. Despite its widespread use, DES’s 56-bit key size was eventually deemed insecure against brute-force attacks, leading to its replacement by the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). However, DES played a crucial role in the adoption and development of encryption in commercial and non-classified communication.