Encryption in the past, present, and future : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Abstract

To ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data in storage and transit, various cryptography systems have been developed. Each of these systems has individual strengths and weaknesses. As the number of computer security threats increases, it becomes even more crucial to use methods of concealing the true meaning of data. This paper will look to strike a balance in providing details of how each of the methods works without explaining in so much detail that a casual reader will be completely lost. It is the goal of this paper to enlighten readers about the cryptography systems all around them and help them to gain a better understanding of how these systems work. The paper will then conclude with a brief discussion of what future advancements are likely to mean to current cryptography systems.