What does data encryption at rest specifically refer to?

Data encryption at rest specifically involves the protection of data that is stored on physical storage devices, such as disks, databases, or cloud storage. When data is defined as "at rest," it means that the data is not actively being used or transmitted but is stored in a state where it could be accessed at any time. By encrypting this data, organizations ensure that even if unauthorized individuals gain access to the physical storage, they cannot easily read or use the information without the proper decryption keys.

This method of encryption helps protect sensitive information against breaches and ensures compliance with data protection regulations. Since the data remains encrypted when not in use, it adds a layer of security against threats like unauthorized access or data theft.

In contrast, encrypting data during transmission pertains to protecting information while it is being sent between devices or across networks, and thus does not align with the specific focus of data encryption at rest. Creating backups involves reproducing data for recovery purposes, without inherently focusing on encryption, and encrypting active data in use relates to data that is currently being processed or accessed, rather than stored.