This is an introduction to cryptology with a focus on applied cryptology. It was designed to be accessible to a wide audience, and therefore does not include a rigorous mathematical foundation (this will be covered in later classes). The class format is lecture and discussion. This class covers the following at a high level:
- Intro to cryptology, cryptography, cryptanalysis
- Overview of cryptography
- Symmetric cryptography
- Asymmetric cryptography
- Protocols
- Overview of adversary capabilities
- Overview of types of attacks
- Case studies of real attacks on real systems
- Standards
Learning Objectives
- Understand the differences and relationships between "cryptology", "cryptography", and "cryptanalysis.”
- Understand the role of cryptography in computer security and information assurance.
- Understand the core concepts of cryptographic algorithms.
- Understand classes of symmetric and asymmetric algorithms, and when each is appropriate.
- Understand different adversarial models, relative difficulty, and how they might manifest in the real world.
- Understand what it means for an algorithm to be "secure" and "broken."
- Identify cryptographic standards organizations.
Framework Connections
The materials within this course focus on the NICE Framework Task, Knowledge, and Skill statements identified within the indicated NICE Framework component(s):
Specialty Areas
- Systems Analysis
- Systems Architecture
Feedback
If you would like to provide feedback on this course, please e-mail the NICCS team at NICCS@mail.cisa.dhs.gov. Please keep in mind that NICCS does not own this course or accept payment for course entry. If you have questions related to the details of this course, such as cost, prerequisites, how to register, etc., please contact the course training provider directly. You can find course training provider contact information by following the link that says “Visit course page for more information...” on this page.