Comparative analysis of the speeds of AES, ChaCha20, and Blowfish encryption algorithms

With our increasing reliance on digital data and sensitive information, there is a paramount need for robust data protection methods. Our study examined encryption algorithms and their effectiveness in safeguarding data in a fast-paced manner. Our core objective was to compare the speed of three prominent encryption algorithms: Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), ChaCha20, and Blowfish. We hypothesized that the ChaCha20 encryption algorithm would enable the fastest encryption and decryption among the three. To test this, we conducted a set of trials using lorem ipsum text files of various lengths. Each algorithm was subjected to rigorous testing to assess its encryption and decryption times. For each file length text file, each of the encryption algorithms would be tested on the file 10 consecutive times and the average was accessed. While each algorithm demonstrated unique strengths (such as faster encryption time, faster decryption times, similar encryption/decryption times, easier implementation of pushing files to be encrypted into the algorithm, ease of use/coding, etc.), ChaCha20 emerged as a clear winner. These results offer valuable context to decision-makers in sectors in need of implementing security for their data (large technological corporations data, academic institutions’ student information, medical facilities’ patient charts, etc.) seeking a rapid encryption solution.