Cryptography
Cryptography is the science of securing communication and information through the use of mathematical techniques and algorithms. It enables confidentiality, integrity, and authentication in data transmission and storage. By transforming plain information into unreadable formats, such as ciphertext, cryptography ensures that only authorized individuals with the proper decryption key can access the original data. Modern cryptography is built on complex mathematical principles and is widely applied in various domains, from securing internet transactions and email communication to protecting sensitive information in government and military systems.
There are two primary types of cryptographic systems: symmetric and asymmetric. Symmetric encryption uses a single key for both encryption and decryption, making it faster but requiring secure key distribution. In contrast,
asymmetric encryption employs a pair of keys—a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption—enabling secure communication without the need to share sensitive keys directly. Protocols like RSA and ECC are examples of asymmetric encryption, while AES and DES are popular symmetric encryption algorithms.
In addition to encryption, cryptography encompasses other critical functions such as digital signatures, hash functions, and authentication protocols. These techniques ensure data integrity, verify the sender's identity, and prevent tampering or unauthorized access. As technology evolves, cryptography continues to advance, addressing challenges like quantum computing, which threatens to break traditional algorithms. The field remains pivotal in ensuring security and privacy in our increasingly connected and digital world.