Mode of Operation

An algorithm for the cryptographic transformation of data that features a symmetric key block cipher algorithm.

[A] description of the conditions under which an information system (IS) operates based on the sensitivity of information processed and the clearance levels, formal access approvals, and need-to-know of its users. Four modes of operation are authorized for processing or transmitting information: dedicated mode, system-high mode, compartmented/ partitioned mode, and multilevel mode. [INFOSEC-99]