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| Unit name |
Cryptography B |
| Unit code |
COMSM0007 |
| Credit points |
10 |
| Level of study |
M/7
|
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
|
| Unit director |
. Warinschi |
| Open unit status |
Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
COMS30002
|
| Co-requisites |
None
|
| School/department |
Department of Computer Science |
| Faculty |
Faculty of Engineering |
Description including Unit Aims
A common view of cryptography is that it only focusses on schemes for encryption; this unit aims to introduce an extended remit of advanced techniques and primitives that allow cryptographic solutions to numerous real-world problems.
The syllabus will include aspects of (but is not limited to):
- Foundations and primitives: pseudo-random generators, functions and permutations, hard-core bits; hash function preimage and collision resistance.
- Primitives for authentication: message authentication codes (models and constructions); digital signature schemes (Fiat-Shamir heuristic).
- Commitment schemes: security models (hiding, binding) and applications.
- Advanced primitives and use-cases: secret sharing and multi-party computation; oblivious transfer; zero-Knowledge proof systems; construction of e-commerce systems.
- Key establishment schemes: models for key agreement; constructions (e.g. protocols such as SSL/TLS).
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to
- understand advanced cryptographic techniques and primitives,
- use cryptography to meet the needs of real-world applications,
- read and appreciate the latest scientific advances in the field.
Teaching Information
20 hours of lectures (2 hours per week).
Assessment Information
30% via coursework assignment(s) and in-class "quiz", 70% via examination.
The coursework assignment(s) for this unit are intended to represent in depth, self-directed learning relating to one or more state-of-the-art topics in cryptography; assessment is via a written report and/or oral presentation.
Reading and References
- J. Katz and Y. Lindell. Introduction to Modern Cryptography. Chapman & Hall/CRC, 2011. ISBN: 1584885513.
