Network Security: Private Communication in a Public World, Second Edition

6. Public Key Algorithms

6.1. Introduction

This chapter describes public key cryptography. To really understand how and why the public key algorithms work, it is necessary to know some number theory. In this chapter we'll describe the number theory concepts necessary to understand the public key algorithms, but only in sufficient detail for an intuitive understanding. For instance, we won't give proofs, though we will explain things. And in the case of complex algorithms (like Euclid's algorithm), we'll merely state that the algorithm exists and what it does, rather than describing the algorithm in this chapter. Those desiring a more complete treatment of the subject matter can read Chapter 7 Number Theory.

Public key algorithms are a motley ...