How do you ensure your cryptographic systems work together?

1 Know your standards

Cryptographic standards are specifications that define how to implement and use cryptographic algorithms, protocols, and formats. They are designed to ensure consistency, compatibility, and security across different systems and platforms. Some common cryptographic standards are AES, RSA, SHA, TLS, and PGP. You should familiarize yourself with the standards that are relevant for your project and follow them as much as possible. You should also keep up to date with the latest updates and revisions of the standards, as they may introduce new features, fixes, or deprecations.

2 Choose your algorithms wisely

Cryptographic algorithms are the mathematical functions that perform encryption, decryption, hashing, signing, and verification. They are the core components of any cryptographic system. However, not all algorithms are created equal. Some are more secure, efficient, or versatile than others. Some are more suitable for certain purposes, such as symmetric encryption, asymmetric encryption, or digital signatures. Some are more widely supported, accepted, or trusted than others. You should choose your algorithms based on your security requirements, performance constraints, and compatibility goals. You should also avoid using outdated, weak, or proprietary algorithms that may compromise your system or limit your interoperability.

3 Test your implementations

Cryptographic implementations are the actual code or hardware that executes the cryptographic algorithms and protocols. They are the practical realization of your cryptographic system. However, they are not always flawless or faithful to the standards or specifications. They may contain errors, bugs, or vulnerabilities that can affect your system's functionality, security, or interoperability. You should test your implementations thoroughly and regularly, using various tools, methods, and scenarios. You should also review your code or design for any potential flaws, weaknesses, or deviations from the standards or best practices.

4 Use common formats and protocols

Cryptographic formats and protocols are the rules and conventions that govern how to store, transmit, and exchange cryptographic data and messages. They are the interface between different cryptographic systems and components. Some common cryptographic formats and protocols are PKCS, X.509, S/MIME, and OpenPGP. You should use common formats and protocols that are compatible with your system and your intended recipients or partners. You should also avoid using proprietary, obscure, or incompatible formats and protocols that may hinder your system's interoperability or usability.

5 Consider your context and environment

Cryptographic systems do not operate in isolation. They are part of a larger context and environment that may affect their performance, security, or interoperability. For example, your system may depend on external factors such as network conditions, user behavior, legal regulations, or ethical norms. Your system may also interact with other systems or components that may have different or conflicting cryptographic requirements, preferences, or capabilities. You should consider your context and environment when designing, developing, and deploying your cryptographic system. You should also communicate and coordinate with your stakeholders, users, and partners to ensure your system meets their expectations and needs.

6 Learn from others

Cryptographic systems are complex and evolving. They are not easy to master or perfect. They are also subject to constant scrutiny, analysis, and improvement by experts, researchers, and hackers. You should learn from others who have experience, knowledge, or insight into cryptographic systems and their interoperability. You should follow the latest trends, developments, and discoveries in the field of cryptography and cybersecurity. You should also seek feedback, advice, or guidance from your peers, mentors, or communities who can help you improve your system or solve your problems.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?