Standard Process for Advanced Encryption
Advanced Encryption Standard, or AES, is an algorithm used in cryptography to secure data sharing and communication on the Internet. AES, a symmetric block cipher, supports three key sizes: 128, 192 and 256 bits. According to "Advanced FPGA Design" by Steve Kilts, "the standard has been approved by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology."
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Pre-Encryption
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The AES algorithm creates a unique 128-bit key called an input block, named "state." This original input block key is combined with the selected key size to create round keys during encryption of data. These round keys use an algebraic matrix used to encrypt the data. According to "TCP/IP for Dummies" by Candace Leiden, Marshall Wilensky and Scott Bradner, "the larger the key size, the more bits there are to use in scrambling the data. On the other hand, the more bits there are, the more complex the process, which means slightly slower encryption and decryption."
Encryption and Data Exchange
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The round key is used to encrypt the entire data block, such as an email message or data packet. The data are then sent to the destination, along with a key to de-encrypt it. The host, or computer with which the data are exchanged, then sends back a response. This may be a status message, instructions or new data.
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De-Encryption
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Received data are compared to the round key and then de-encrypted. If a new connection is created, the input block is shifted to create a new round key. This creates a new encryption key to be used with the next data block.
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