Covering a broad spectrum of topics, the E|CES course delves into modern symmetric key cryptography, offering detailed insights into algorithms like Feistel Functions, DES, and AES. Additionally, students gain familiarity with various other algorithms, including Blowfish, Twofish, Skipjack, CAST, TEA, and more.
The curriculum extends to information theory basics as applied to cryptography, covering essential concepts such as hashing algorithms (MD5, MD6, SHA, GOST, RIPMD 256) and asymmetric cryptography with in-depth discussions on RSA, Elgamal, Elliptic Curve, and Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA).
Throughout the program, students delve into crucial cryptographic principles like diffusion, confusion, and Kerckhoff’s principle. Practical application is emphasized, enabling students to work with cryptographic algorithms from classical ciphers like the Caesar cipher to contemporary methods such as AES and RSA. Beyond theory, the course equips students with hands-on experience setting up a VPN, encrypting a drive, and exploring steganography. Furthermore, E|CES provides practical cryptanalysis and quantum computing knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of traditional and cutting-edge cryptographic concepts.