Module  Overview

 Module Overview

 This module focuses on public key cryptography; in particular public key encryption and key agreement. It discusses the challenges with symmetric encryption and the need for public key algorithms.

 Module Objectives

By the end of this module you should be able to:

1. explain how asymmetric (public key) encryption works.
2.  explain the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption and the need for public key cryptography.
3.  explain the use of key exchange/agreement protocols in cryptography.
4. identify commonly used algorithms for asymmetric encryption.
5.  illustrate how public key encryption works using a freely available software 

 Task List

• Study the slides on public key cryptography posted in the module.
• Complete the Public Key Repository exercise in Discussions
• Complete the lab assignment on public key encryption