Cryptography - MAT00080H
Module summary
This module will discuss the history and mathematics behind various attempts (and failures) to keep information secret. It looks at algorithms currently used (such as AES, Diffie-Hellman, and RSA) as well as potential new quantum algorithms and attacks.
Related modules
No pre-requistites beyond first-year core modules.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 2 2023-24 |
Module aims
This module will discuss the history and mathematics behind various attempts (and failures) to keep information secret. It looks at algorithms currently used (such as AES, Diffie-Hellman, and RSA) as well as potential new quantum algorithms and attacks.
Module learning outcomes
By the end of the module students will be able to:
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Analyse and exploit the weaknesses of classical cryptosystems.
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Apply public key cryptographic protocols in calculations, and exploit their potential weaknesses in simple cases.
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Implement the mathematical aspects of the modern cryptosystems AES in calculations.
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Use the postulates of quantum information in calculations
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Recall the steps in the BB84 protocol and explain why it is secure.
Module content
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Classical ciphers.
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Block Ciphers: The AES algorithm.
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Public Key Cryptography: The RSA cipher; factoring. The Diffie-Hellman algorithm.
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Quantum Theory as a theory of information.
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Quantum key distribution: The BB84 protocol
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Module feedback
Current Department policy on feedback is available in the student handbook. Coursework and examinations will be marked and returned in accordance with this policy.
Indicative reading
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Introduction to Cryptography with Coding Theory by Wade Trappe and Lawrence C. Washington, ISBN 0-13-186239-1 (Z 52.8 TRA). Covers most of the course (and much more) with discussion of both the mathematics and computational implementations of cryptography.
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Applied Cryptography by Bruce Schneier, ISBN 0471117099 (Z 52.8 SCH) is an amusing read.
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Understanding cryptography: a textbook for students and practitioners by Christof Paar and Jan Pelzl. Available as an e-book from the library. This concentrates on the practical and computational applications of this course.
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Introduction to Modern Cryptography by Jonathan Katz and Yehuda Lindell, ISBN 978-1-4665-7026-9. This book attempts to give a rigorous overview of many cryptographic ideas, and so is an excellent read if you are interested in further reading around the subject.
Quantum computation and quantum information by Michael A. Nielsen and Issac L. Chuang, ISBN: 9781107002173 . This has a good introduction to the basics of quantum information and provides a lot more to read about if you are interested.