Cryptography
Cryptography is the practice of using codes and ciphers to protect information from unauthorized access. It is used to secure data in transit, such as emails, text messages, and other digital communications. Cryptography also helps to protect data at rest, such as stored files and databases. Cryptography is an essential component of modern computer security, and is used in a variety of applications, from online banking to secure communications.
History of Cryptography
Cryptography has been used for centuries to protect sensitive information. The earliest known use of cryptography dates back to the ancient Egyptians, who used simple substitution ciphers to protect their hieroglyphic messages. The Greeks and Romans also used cryptography to protect their military secrets. During the Middle Ages, cryptography was used to protect diplomatic messages. In the modern era, cryptography has become increasingly important as digital communications have become more prevalent.
Comparison of Cryptography Techniques
| Technique | Strength | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Symmetric Key | High | Fast |
| Asymmetric Key | High | Slow |
| Hash Function | Medium | Fast |
Summary
Cryptography is an essential component of modern computer security, and is used to protect data in transit and at rest. It has been used for centuries to protect sensitive information, and is used in a variety of applications, from online banking to secure communications. For more information about cryptography, visit websites such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF).
See Also
- Encryption
- Digital Signature
- Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
- Cryptanalysis
- Cryptocurrency
- Cryptocurrency Mining
- Cryptocurrency Wallet
- Blockchain
- Cryptographic Hash Function
- Cryptographic Key
