Computer Security Basics, 2nd Edition

Colophon

The tool on the cover of Computer Security Basics, Second Edition, is a key. Locks and keys were first developed by the Egyptians for use on doors. The Egyptian wooden door lock was opened using a long wooden implement with thin wooden pegs of varying lengths set in one end. When inserted and lifted, the pegs on this key would raise similar pegs within the lock. When all the pegs were raised past a certain point, the door would open.

Metal locks and keys were developed by the Romans using a design similar to that of the Egyptian door lock. Over time, the Romans refined this lock technique and embellished both locks and keys; locks were camouflaged as animals, flowers, or birds. Keys were highly decorated and frequently worn as pendants.

Portable locks, otherwise known as padlocks, were invented by the early Chinese, Turkish, Indians, and Russians. In the late 16th century this was taken a step further with the invention of keyless locks, otherwise known as combination locks. Further refinement continued throughout the 20th century as greater precision in metal work allowed for closer parts tolerance and therefore greater security.

The cover image is from The Dover Pictorial Archive. The cover font is Adobe ITC Garamond. The text font is Linotype Birka; the heading font is Adobe Myriad Condensed; and the code font is LucasFont’s TheSans Mono Condensed.