Introduction and History of Cryptography |
Beginning with simple mono-alphabet substitution methods like the Caesar Cipher, Atbash Cipher, and Affine Cipher, it evolved to overcome weaknesses such as those found in ROT13 and Single Substitution techniques. Multi-alphabet substitution techniques introduced greater complexity, including the use of Cipher Disks, the Vigenère Cipher, Playfair Cipher, and ADFGVX Cipher. Homophonic Substitution added another layer of security, while strategies like Null Ciphers, Book Ciphers, and Rail Fence Ciphers offered alternative approaches. The Enigma Machine, notable for its role in World War II, marked a significant advancement in cryptographic technology. CrypTool, a software tool, exemplifies modern cryptographic education and experimentation. |
Symmetric Cryptography & Hashes |
Starting with fundamental concepts such as information theory, Kerckhoffs’s Principle, and binary math operations like AND, OR, and XOR. It delves into various symmetric block cipher algorithms including Feistel-based methods like DES, 3DES, and advanced ones like AES, Blowfish, Serpent, Twofish, among others. The exam also explores symmetric algorithm modes such as ECB, CBC, PCBC, CFB, OFB, CTR, and their initialization vectors. Stream ciphers like RC4, FISH, and PIKE are discussed, alongside hash functions like MD5, MD6, SHA, and others, including MAC and HMAC for message authentication. Additionally, CryptoBench for performance evaluation is touched upon.
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Number Theory and Asymmetric Cryptography |
This section delves into asymmetric encryption and fundamental number theory concepts, covering prime numbers, Euler’s totient function, and the modulus operator, alongside topics like the Birthday Paradox and Birthday Attack. It explores random number generation methods including Naor-Reingold, Mersenne Twister, and linear congruential generators, as well as cryptographic protocols like Diffie-Hellman, RSA, and Digital Signature Algorithm. Additionally, it discusses elliptic curve cryptography, including variations and protocols like Elgamal, all within the framework of cryptographic toolsets like CrypTool.
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Applications of Cryptography |
The section of the 212-81 exam encompasses a thorough exploration of cryptographic standards and protocols, starting with FIPS standards and digital signatures, alongside digital certificates including X.509 specifications and management. It discusses Certificate Authorities like Verisign, Registration Authorities, and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). Authentication methods such as PAP, S-PAP, CHAP, and Kerberos are covered, as well as encryption techniques like PGP, Wi-Fi encryption protocols (WEP, WPA, WPA2), SSL, TLS, and VPN technologies (PPTP, L2TP, IPSec, SSL/TLS). File encryption methods like EFS, BitLocker, and VeraCrypt are reviewed, while steganography and its detection, as well as NSA encryption algorithms and unbreakable encryption, are also included in the exam syllabus.
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Cryptanalysis |
The examination on breaking ciphers encompasses cryptanalysis techniques such as frequency analysis, Kasiski examination, and modern approaches like chosen plaintext, ciphertext-only, and related-key attacks. Linear, differential, and integral cryptanalysis methods are discussed, alongside resources and successes in cryptanalysis. Rainbow tables and password cracking techniques are also examined, alongside the tools employed in these endeavors. |
Quantum Computing and Cryptography |
The section on quantum computing and cryptography in the 212-81 exam delves into the intricate connection between two leading-edge technological fields. Students will study the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and quantum computing, covering concepts like qubits, superposition, and entanglement. Expanding on this groundwork, the curriculum investigates the impact of quantum computing on cryptography, analyzing how quantum algorithms like Shor's algorithm pose challenges to conventional cryptographic systems such as RSA and Diffie-Hellman. Additionally, the section explores strategies for post-quantum cryptography and quantum-resistant algorithms, including lattice-based cryptography, hash-based cryptography, and protocols like quantum key distribution (QKD).
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Official Information |
https://www.eccouncil.org/programs/ec-council-certified-encryption-specialist-eces/ |