Coding theory is a branch of mathematics and computer science that focuses on the design and analysis of codes for data transmission and storage. It aims to ensure that information can be sent and received accurately, even in the presence of errors. By using specific algorithms, coding theory helps to detect and correct errors that may occur during communication. One of the key concepts in coding theory is the idea of error correction, which allows systems to identify and fix mistakes in data. This is crucial for applications like telecommunications, data storage, and computer networks, where reliable information transfer is essential for functionality and performance.