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Security Fundamentals & Crypto · Intermediate

Cryptanalysis

The study of analyzing and breaking cryptographic systems.

Definition

Cryptanalysis techniques include brute force, frequency analysis, known-plaintext, chosen-plaintext, chosen-ciphertext, differential, linear, and side-channel attacks. Cryptanalysts also evaluate new algorithms before standardization. Successful cryptanalysis drives algorithm deprecation.

Example

Linear cryptanalysis was used to break DES with 2^43 known plaintexts.

Exam tip

Know attack models by what the attacker has: ciphertext only, known plaintext, chosen plaintext, chosen ciphertext.

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