Final answer:
The two symmetric encryption algorithms discussed are AES and 3DES, both used for encrypting and decrypting sensitive data with the same key, with AES being the modern, preferred choice due to its stronger security.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two symmetric encryption algorithms are AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and 3DES (Triple Data Encryption Standard). These are widely used algorithms for securing sensitive data. Symmetric encryption is a form of cryptography where the same key is used for both encryption and decryption.
AES is a modern algorithm chosen by the U.S. government to protect classified information, and it is used worldwide. It has largely replaced 3DES, which was an adaptation of the older DES algorithm. 3DES was designed to provide a higher level of security by encrypting data three times but due to advancements and evolution in the field of cryptography, AES is now the preferred algorithm because it provides stronger security and is more efficient in operation.