16.2. Public Key Cryptography

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is public key cryptography?

   Hint

   Think about the 'lock and key' analogy.

2. 2.

   Name one limitation of the Diffie-Hellman protocol.

   Hint

   Consider users in different time zones.

3. 3.

   What is the main function of public key cryptography?

   • To encrypt messages with a shared key
   • To allow secure communication without shared secrets
   • To use a single key for encryption and decryption

   Hint

   Focus on the difference between shared and separate keys.

4. 4.

   True or False: The Diffie-Hellman protocol does not require both parties to be online.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember the need for simultaneous contact.

5. 5.

   Design a simple cryptographic protocol using the public key structure discussed, ensuring it addresses the limitations of symmetric systems.

   Hint

   Consider how to handle the distribution of keys.

6. 6.

   Discuss the implications of breaking the RSA encryption scheme. What would it mean for modern communications?

   Hint

   Think about real-world applications and services that rely on RSA.