What is the reverse process of encoding, allowing encoded data to be interpreted correctly?

What is the reverse process of encoding, allowing encoded data to be interpreted correctly?

• A. Encoding
• B. Decoding
• C. Encryption
• D. Hashing

Answer: (B)

When data is transformed into a different representation for transport or storage, the reverse action is decoding. Decoding reverses the encoding steps to recover the original data so it can be understood or used again. For example, base64 encodes binary data as ASCII text; decoding base64 brings it back to its original binary form. Encoding isn’t meant for security; it’s about representation. Encryption, on the other hand, hides content and is reversed by decryption, while hashing is a one-way process that cannot be reversed to reveal the original data.

When data is transformed into a different representation for transport or storage, the reverse action is decoding. Decoding reverses the encoding steps to recover the original data so it can be understood or used again. For example, base64 encodes binary data as ASCII text; decoding base64 brings it back to its original binary form. Encoding isn’t meant for security; it’s about representation. Encryption, on the other hand, hides content and is reversed by decryption, while hashing is a one-way process that cannot be reversed to reveal the original data.