Best Books on Cryptography

In this post you will find some of the best books on cryptography. Reading a book about cryptography can provide a deeper understanding of the concepts and techniques used to secure communication and protect sensitive information.

It can also help you acquire the knowledge necessary to design and implement secure systems. As well as understanding the strengths and weaknesses of various cryptographic systems, and stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in the field.

Additionally, studying cryptography can improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making the reader a more informed and effective practitioner in their field.

Find below some popular and highly recommended cryptography books.

Cryptography Engineering: Design Principles and Practical Applications

Guide to the design and implementation of cryptographic systems. It is written by Niels Ferguson, Bruce Schneier, and Tadayoshi Kohno, three experts in the field of cryptography.

The book covers both theoretical and practical aspects of cryptography. It provides a clear understanding of the fundamental principles behind modern cryptographic algorithms and protocols. Therefore, it covers topics such as symmetric and asymmetric encryption, message authentication, digital signatures, key exchange, and more.

One of the unique features of the book is its focus on the practical aspects of cryptography. Consequently, it provides concrete guidance on how to implement cryptographic systems securely, and includes many real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the concepts discussed.

The book is intended for professionals and students who are interested in cryptography, including software engineers, network administrators, and security experts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, “Cryptography Engineering” is an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand and apply cryptography in their work.

Approx. 384 pages

Serious Cryptography: A Practical Introduction to Modern Encryption

Book written by Jean-Philippe Aumasson and published in 2017. The book aims to provide a practical and accessible introduction to modern cryptography, with an emphasis on understanding the principles and concepts behind encryption algorithms.

The book is divided into three main parts. The first part introduces the basics of cryptography, including the history of cryptography, classical ciphers, and the principles of modern cryptography.

The second part covers modern cryptographic algorithms, including symmetric-key encryption, public-key encryption, digital signatures, and message authentication codes. The third part of the book focuses on the practical applications of cryptography, including secure communication protocols, key management, and cryptanalysis.

Throughout the book, Aumasson uses clear and concise language to explain complex concepts, and he includes numerous examples and practical exercises to help readers understand the material.

He also includes discussions of real-world security breaches and their implications for cryptography, as well as critiques of popular encryption schemes and algorithms.

Overall, “Serious Cryptography” is a comprehensive and practical introduction to modern encryption, suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

It provides a solid foundation in the principles and concepts of cryptography, and it is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the field.

Approx. 312 pages

Introduction to Modern Cryptography

Written by Jonathan Katz and Yehuda Lindell, this book provides a thorough and up-to-date treatment of both theoretical and practical aspects of cryptography.

As the previous book, it covers a range of essential topics like symmetric and asymmetric encryption, message authentication, digital signatures, key exchange, and more. Also, It provides an in-depth treatment of the mathematical foundations of cryptography, including number theory and algebra.

The main focus of this book is security. The authors lay out different cryptographic algorithms and protocols. And it shows how to use cryptography to secure communication channels and storage systems.

Fortunately, the book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it easy for readers with a background in mathematics to understand the concepts presented. It includes many examples, exercises, and problems to help reinforce the material covered.

Overall, a comprehensive and up-to-date guide, and good resource for anyone with an interest in cryptography.

Approx. 603 pages

The Code Book: The Science of Secrecy from Ancient Egypt to Quantum Cryptography

A book by Simon Singh that traces the history and evolution of cryptography from ancient times to the present day. The book is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it a great introduction to the subject for readers with no prior knowledge of cryptography.

Furthermore, it covers a wide range of topics, from the earliest forms of cryptography used by the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, to the encryption methods used during World War II, to the development of modern computer-based cryptography. Equally important, It explores the ways in which cryptography has been used to protect information. And how cryptanalysis has been used to break codes.

The key strengths of the book is its focus on the science behind cryptography. Singh explains the mathematical concepts and algorithms that are used in cryptography. In addition, He discusses the social and historical context in which cryptography has been used. Therefore, the authors provide great insights of the ways in which cryptography has shaped the course of human history.

Approx. 432 pages

Cryptography: A Very Short Introduction

A concise overview of cryptography, its history, and its applications. The book is part of the “Very Short Introduction” series, which provides a compact and accessible introduction to various subjects.

A variety of cryptography topics are included, such as classical ciphers, modern symmetric encryption, public key encryption, and digital signatures. Additionally, It expands on the use of cryptography in various applications, such as secure communication, electronic voting, and secure payment systems.

The authors share an overview of the various algorithms and protocols used in cryptography and discuss the trade-offs between security and efficiency.

Overall, a great introduction to cryptography for those who are new to the subject.

Approx. 160 pages

Cryptography Theory and Practice

Written by Douglas R. Stinson, the book starts with a historical overview of cryptography and its evolution from ancient times to the present day.

Sequentially, It goes on to cover a range of topics in cryptography, including classical ciphers, modern symmetric encryption, public key encryption, and digital signatures. Besides, it discusses the various mathematical foundations of cryptography, such as number theory, algebra, and probability theory.

And then, It provides an in-depth discussion of the various algorithms and protocols used in cryptography. Protocols and algorithms such as DES, AES, RSA, and elliptic curve cryptography. What’s more, the author explains the various algorithms and protocols clearly, discussing their strengths and weaknesses.

In addition, the book covers various practical applications of cryptography, such as secure communication, electronic voting, and secure payment systems. The author provides an overview of the various standards and protocols used in these applications. And it discusses the various trade-offs involved in their design and implementation.

Approx. 598 pages

Conclusion

To summarise, these books are widely regarded as comprehensive and accessible introductions to the field of cryptography, covering topics such as encryption algorithms, protocols, number theory, and more.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, these books can help you deepen your understanding of cryptography and its applications.

I hope you enjoy this article, and thanks for reading and supporting this blog!

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