What is the main purpose of data encryption in cloud technology?

The primary purpose of data encryption in cloud technology is to protect data from unauthorized access. Encryption transforms data into a format that is unreadable without the appropriate decryption key, ensuring that even if data is intercepted or accessed by unauthorized individuals, it remains secure and confidential. This is especially critical in cloud environments where data is often stored remotely and shared across various users and systems.

By implementing encryption, organizations can safeguard sensitive information, such as personal data, financial records, and intellectual property, from potential threats like data breaches and cyberattacks. This protective measure is vital in maintaining compliance with data protection regulations and industry standards, thereby enhancing the overall security posture of the organization.

Other options, such as increasing data transfer speed or enhancing data storage capabilities, do not directly relate to the function of encryption; rather, these aspects focus on performance or efficiency improvements that are separate from the core purpose of securing data.