DESCRIPTIVE EXPLORATION OF THE USE OF CRYPTOGRAPHY TO PROTECT DATA ACROSS DIFFERENT FILE SIZES

Abstract

The increasing volume and diversity of digital files have heightened the need for effective data protection mechanisms. Cryptography, particularly encryption, is widely recognized as a fundamental control for safeguarding data confidentiality. However, in practical environments, the way encryption is applied often varies depending on file size, usability considerations, and workflow requirements. This study aims to descriptively explore the use of cryptography to protect data across different file sizes small, medium, and large using a qualitative descriptive method based on an internet literature study. Data were collected from authoritative standards, prior academic research, and reputable industry reports available online. The analysis focused on identifying common patterns of encryption usage, implementation approaches, and practical considerations related to file size. The findings indicate that small files are typically protected through simple, user-driven encryption methods to support ease of sharing, while medium-sized files are often bundled into encrypted containers for efficiency. Large files, such as backups and system images, tend to rely on system-level or automated encryption solutions to ensure scalability and consistency. Overall, the study highlights that implementation choices, usability, and key management practices are more influential than algorithm selection alone. This descriptive exploration provides practical insights for students, practitioners, and organizations seeking to apply cryptography effectively in real-world file protection scenarios