Home > The Power of Cryptography: Why It’s Essential for Cybersecurity and How to Study it at MIU

Criptography: Definition, types, and examples

Cryptography is a scientific discipline that combines mathematics and coding techniques to protect information and communications. Its core objective is to guarantee the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of data against unauthorized access. From securing bank transactions to protecting classified documents, cryptography is a fundamental pillar of modern cybersecurity. MIU’s Master’s in Cybersecurity allows you to specialize in this critical area, preparing you for a professional role in high demand and providing you with practical tools to implement real-world security solutions.

What is cryptography? Why is it essential in cybersecurity? 

What is cryptography?

Cryptography (from the Greek kryptós, “hidden,” and graphein, “to write”) is a scientific and engineering discipline dedicated to the study of techniques, algorithms, and protocols designed to guarantee information security. Its main mission is to transform data from a legible format into an illegible one through a process known as encryption or ciphering, ensuring that only the legitimate recipient can decipher the message.

Cryptography must meet four key requirements to ensure comprehensive information security:

1. Confidentiality: Only the intended recipient can access the information.
2. Integrity: The information cannot be modified without detection.
3. Non-repudiation: The sender of the information cannot deny their participation in the creation or sending of the encrypted information.
4. Authenticity: The identity of the sender and/or receiver are confirmed.

Types of cryptography:

• Symmetric cryptography: Uses a single secret key for both encryption and decryption.
• Asymmetric cryptography (or public-key): Uses two keys: one public and one private.
• Hash functions: Generates a unique digital fingerprint; does not use a key.

Why is cryptography so important today?

In our highly digitalized world, cryptography is essential because it protects data at rest (databases) and data in transit (network connections). Furthermore, it allows for the verification of identities and guarantees the non-repudiation of actions. It’s critical in everything from daily activities to national defense.

Examples of cryptography: Practical applications

Encryption is in constant use throughout our digital activities, actively protecting both daily interactions and critical systems. Below are several key examples of how cryptography is applied in computer science:

• Secure communications: Protocols like TLS (Transport Layer Security) are the foundation of internet security. They first use asymmetric cryptography to establish a secure initial connection, which involves verifying identities and exchanging keys. They then switch to symmetric cryptography (which is significantly faster) for the bulk encryption of data transfer. TLS protects web browsing (it is essential for HTTPS), securing information such as usernames, passwords, credit card details, and other personal data. It also secures email and messaging applications.
• Cryptocurrencies and blockchain: Blockchain technology relies on hash functions to guarantee the immutability of records and on asymmetric cryptography for wallet and transaction management.
• Digital signatures: Digital signatures are possible thanks to cryptography. The process involves the sender using their private key to “sign” a hash of the document. The recipient then uses the sender’s public key to verify the signature, ensuring both that the document originated from that specific person and that it has not been altered.
• Defense and national security: On a larger scale, cryptography is vital for protecting state secrets, military communications, and critical infrastructure (power grids, air traffic control systems, etc.). Governments and defense agencies invest heavily in this area, particularly in the development of post-quantum cryptography. This is driven by the imminent threat of future quantum computers, which could break current asymmetric encryption algorithms (such as RSA), putting the long-term security of classified information at risk.

How to start specializing in cryptography

Success in cryptography requires an education that integrates theory with the latest industry practices. The Master’s in Cybersecurity at MIU covers all domains of cybersecurity, from cryptography and ethical hacking to risk management and digital forensics, ensuring you graduate with a well-rounded and highly employable professional profile.

4 unique advantages of earning a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity at MIU

MIU’s Master’s in Cybersecurity has four key elements designed to advance your career:

1. Accredited U.S. degree with the option to study in English or Spanish. 
2. Accessible prices to increase access to a high-quality education. 
3. International networking to expand your opportunities.
4. Python programming content included.

With MIU City University Miami, you won’t just master the theory; you’ll also develop the practical skills and real-world experience you need to excel in cybersecurity and cryptography.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Speak with one of our advisors today and find out how to begin your path toward a professional future full of opportunities in cybersecurity.

References

¿Qué es la criptografía? (2024, July 18). Ibm.com. https://www.ibm.com/es-es/think/topics/cryptographyWhat is post-quantum cryptography? (2024, August 13). NIST. https://www.nist.gov/cybersecurity/what-post-quantum-cryptography