Summary
Cryptology, for millennia a "secret science," is rapidly gaining in practical importance for the protection of communication channels, databases, & software. Beside its role in computerized information systems (public key systems), more & more applications within computer systems & networks are appearing, which also extend to access rights & source file protection. The first part of this book treats secret codes & their uses - cryptography. The second part deals with the process of covertly decrypting a secret code - cryptanalysis - where in particular advice on assessing methods is given. The book presupposes only elementary mathematical knowledge. Spiced with a wealth of exciting, amusing, & sometimes personal stories from the history of cryptology, it will also interest general readers. Decrypted Secrets has become a standard book on cryptology. The new edition has been revised & extended in many details.
