Which term describes the transformation of plaintext to ciphertext?

The transformation of plaintext to ciphertext is known as encipherment. This process involves converting readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext) through the use of specific algorithms and keys. Encipherment plays a crucial role in ensuring confidentiality and protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.

While terms such as "encryption process" might also seem relevant, they refer more broadly to the complete method of applying the algorithm and keys to achieve encipherment. Encipherment specifically focuses on the act of transforming the data itself. Other options like decipherment relate to converting ciphertext back into readable plaintext, and algorithm creation pertains to developing cryptographic methods rather than the actual process of data transformation.