AES is a data encryption standard implemented in software and hardware to encrypt sensitive data. It is essential for government computer security, cybersecurity and electronic data protection. The number after the AES refers to the length of the key used to protect the data, with higher numbers indicating a stronger level of encryption. AES-256 is widely used to protect data on computers and on the Internet. AES-128 is specified as the minimum level of encryption to be used within the TS 50134-9 (CENELEC) telecare protocol to secure telecare data when carried over a public network.