What is essential to protect information housed on an information system?

• A. Unauthorized access control
• B. Data encryption
• C. System durability
• D. Network speed

Answer: (A)

To effectively protect information housed on an information system, data encryption is key. Data encryption involves converting information into a coded format that is unreadable without a decryption key. This process ensures that even if unauthorized individuals gain access to the data, they are unable to understand or utilize it without the means to decode it. This is particularly crucial for sensitive information such as personal data, financial records, or confidential business information, as it helps maintain confidentiality and integrity.

While unauthorized access control is important for preventing unauthorized access to the system, it does not address the scenario in which data is accessed but not protected—in which case, encryption would still provide a layer of security. System durability and network speed, while relevant to overall system performance, do not contribute directly to the security of the information itself. Thus, the focus on data encryption is essential for safeguarding the information from potential breaches and unauthorized access.