Cryptography and encryption are essential tools for protecting data and communication in the information technology (IT) field. But how do you choose the best encryption algorithm for your IT project? In this article, we will explain some basic concepts and criteria for selecting the most suitable encryption method for your needs.
Encryption is the process of transforming data into an unreadable form using a secret key. The key is a piece of information that determines how the data is encrypted and decrypted. Only the authorized parties who have the key can access the original data. Encryption can protect data from unauthorized access, modification, or theft.
I always refer to various NIST certified encryption methods like FIPS 140-2 and 3. These have been researched and certified to meet a high standard. Make sure they actually have the certificate as well, and not just meet the standard (it is not the same thing).
In my experience, Encryption is a method of making a specific key for a specific door. Keys and locks are the same in method of creation, but they do not work universally. Each encryption set by a computer technician is the same as well, its specific and well guarded. It shouldn't work for another door so to speak. Very vague but powerful visual.
There are two main types of encryption algorithms: symmetric and asymmetric. Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. It is fast and efficient, but it requires a secure way to share the key between the parties. Asymmetric encryption uses different keys for encryption and decryption. One key is public and can be shared with anyone, while the other key is private and must be kept secret. It is more secure and flexible, but it is slower and more complex than symmetric encryption.
Continuing with the key and lock visual, each key made for a lock will only work with that lock, here we see a symmetric encryption being shown. You can use the key to either lock or unlock the lock. Asymmetric encryption focuses more on complicating the task, which is good! its like having access to an apartment complex but NOT having access to every apartment within the complex. One key to get in and a second key to get home.
When selecting an encryption algorithm, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different algorithms have different strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the type and sensitivity of the data, the purpose and scope of the encryption, the performance and compatibility of the encryption, and the legal and regulatory requirements. For instance, personal or financial data may require stronger encryption than public or non-critical data, and encryption can affect the speed, bandwidth, and storage of the data, as well as the compatibility with different devices, platforms, and standards. Additionally, encryption may be subject to certain laws, regulations, or policies that specify the minimum level of security, the allowed algorithms, or the key management practices.
This can be changed with each industry you may enter. Some industries opt for more convenience and less locks. Imagine a small box with one item that holds a persons name, if that held multiple locks like a safe with a SSN we would get nothing done. Furthermore this can dive into the discussion of the principle of least privilege. The main point here is that an exceptional lock can still be a very bad idea if not taking the current situation into consideration. Who needs access? when do they need access? can they share? read, write, edit privileges? These are just some of the questions that should be considered.
Encryption algorithms are used to protect data, and some of the most common ones are AES, RSA, DES, and ECC. AES is a symmetric encryption algorithm that is widely used and accepted as the industry standard, supporting different key sizes such as 128, 192, or 256 bits. RSA is an asymmetric encryption algorithm that is widely used and accepted as the basis for public-key cryptography, supporting different key sizes such as 1024, 2048, or 4096 bits. DES is a symmetric encryption algorithm that was once the standard, but is now considered obsolete and insecure, using a fixed key size of 56 bits. Lastly, ECC is an asymmetric encryption algorithm that is based on the mathematical properties of elliptic curves, offering higher security and efficiency than RSA with smaller key sizes such as 256 or 512 bits.
Each encryption should be seen as temporary and not at all as a final defense, if someone has enough time, they can commit the crime. Especially with the idea of quantum computing easily solving most Algorithms, the deeper question is not which is the BEST encryption, but which one is the best for ME. Security is complex, its not simple and one size fits all. This is where conversations need to involve not just 1 person but multiple people to the conversation for a more understood solution that benefits all of the planners and implementers.
Before implementing an encryption algorithm, it is important to test and evaluate its performance and security. Cryptanalysis is the science of analyzing and breaking encryption algorithms, which can reveal weaknesses and vulnerabilities, as well as the best ways to attack it. Benchmarking measures and compares the speed, memory, and CPU usage of an encryption algorithm, which can reveal the efficiency and scalability of the algorithm. Validation verifies and certifies that an encryption algorithm meets the standards and specifications of the industry or the authority, which can reveal the compliance and reliability of the algorithm. All of these methods and tools can help to ensure the trust and confidence of the users.
A wise teacher once told me the best way to test a bullet proof jacket is to test it against bullets. Its a simple statement meant to focus our gaze on the implementation of security. An attack is always expected but never welcomed. Penetration tests, in-house social engineering, port scanning, etc. These are all methods of testing your security, if you feel confident in your system it wouldn't hurt to reach out to trusted corporations to test AGAINST your system. The benefit of these tests are that the vulnerabilities and weaknesses will be communicated to you after the attack. No system is perfect but it can be tested to ensure proper policies and authorizations are being implemented. The best way to know your enemy is to think like them.