CYB203 – Cryptology

This unit comprises several modules in the broader cryptology discipline, which is a core topic for data protection. The first part of the unit is a primer on mathematics for cryptography including number theory, modular arithmetic and Euler’s theorem. The second part comprises symmetric key encryption algorithms, namely, DES and AES. The third part includes blocks and ciphers. The fourth part covers Asymmetric ciphers, public key cryptography and RSA, as well as Diffie-Hellman and Elliptic Curve. The fifth part of the unit introduces hash functions, message authentication codes and digital signatures. The unit then concludes with an introduction to cryptanalysis including cryptovirology and ransomware attack analysis.  

Learning Outcomes:

• Describe fundamentals of cryptography including basic ciphers, encryption, digital signatures, applications and cryptanalysis, in the context of cybersecurity for systems and platforms
• Examine cryptanalysis solutions for real-world threats including ransomware
• Apply cryptographic algorithms to address application-specific cybersecurity requirements including secrecy, privacy and network security
• Identify and apply cryptographic tools and evaluate their utility to foster cybersecurity