Module 03 Fundamentals of Cryptography

algorithm

A set of procedures based on a mathematical formula used to encrypt and decrypt the data. Also called a cipher.

asymmetric cryptographic algorithm

Cryptography that uses two mathematically related keys.

birthday attack

A statistical phenomenon that makes finding collisions easier.

blockchain

A shared, immutable ledger that facilitates the process of recording transactions and tracking assets in a business network.

collision

When two files have the same hash.

cryptography

The practice of transforming information so that it is secure and cannot be understood by unauthorized persons.

database-level encryption

Applying cryptography to a database.

decryption

The process of changing encrypted text into the original text.

digital signature

An electronic verification of the sender.

downgrade attack

An attack in which the system is forced to abandon the current higher security mode of operation and “fall back” to implementing an older and less secure mode.

encryption

The process of changing plaintext into ciphertext.

file-level encryption

To encrypt or decrypt files individually.

full-disk encryption (FDE)

A technology to protect the entire hard drive using cryptography including the installed OS.

hardware security module (HSM)

A removable external cryptographic device.

hashing

The process of creating a digital fingerprint.

key exchange

The process of sending and receiving secure cryptographic keys.

key length

The number of bits in a key.

nonrepudiation

The process of proving that a user performed an action.

open public ledger

A public blockchain in which anyone can join the blockchain network and become part of it.

partition-level encryption

Applying cryptography to a partition of a hard drive.

record-level encryption

Applying cryptography to database records.

secure enclave

A technology for Apple and Android devices similar to TPM for PCs.

steganography

Hiding the existence of data within another type of file, such as an image file.

symmetric cryptographic algorithm

Encryption that uses a single key to encrypt and decrypt a message.

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

An international standard for cryptoprocessors.

volume-level encryption

Applying cryptography to a volume of a hard drive.