Which of the following is a benefit of using symmetric key cryptography?

The benefit of using symmetric key cryptography primarily lies in its high speed of encryption. Symmetric key algorithms use the same key for both encryption and decryption, allowing for quick processing of data. This is particularly advantageous when a large volume of data needs to be encrypted or decrypted in a short amount of time, making symmetric key cryptography a preferred choice for applications where performance is critical.

In contrast, other options highlight aspects that are not typical benefits of symmetric key cryptography. For instance, symmetric systems can struggle with key distribution, as securely sharing the single key among parties can be challenging. Enhanced security for public keys typically relates to asymmetric cryptography, where public keys can be shared openly without compromising security. Lastly, symmetric cryptography usually operates with a single key per communication session or file, rather than multiple key usage, which could complicate the cryptographic process and management.