Cryptography: Technologies for Securing Data and Communications

In this course, Dr. Eugene Spafford gives you a foundation in cryptography with an emphasis on why encryption technologies have been so important to the internet and decentralized computing (such as the cloud). Learn about the history of secure communications—from origin to destination—and explore the policy implications of encryption as it relates to privacy, security, authenticity, and integrity. You'll examine how encryption helps maintain a secure cyberspace, protecting individuals and organizations from cybercrime, espionage, and terrorism. Additionally, you’ll see how cryptocurrencies rely on cryptographic methods to verify transactions securely, enabling safe data exchange between private wallets and public ledgers.

Learning objectives
Analyze the impact of historical developments on contemporary cryptographic practices.
Evaluate the role of cryptography in enhancing cybersecurity measures.
Examine how encryption works to ensure the security and safety of an exchange of data between parties, particularly private transmissions.
Evaluate the policy implications of encryption.