• Online, Self-Paced
Course Description

This course explains how encrypting and signing a message works, how message authentication codes work, and why a digital signature is superior to a cryptographic hash for validating software integrity. This course coverage aligns with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) requirements K0018: Knowledge of encryption algorithms, and K0019: Knowledge of cryptography and cryptographic key management concepts.

Learning Objectives

On successful completion of this course, learners should have the knowledge and skills to:

  • Explain what a message integrity function is
  • Explain the difference between a message authentication code and a digital signature
  • Explain how a digital signature works
  • Explain how encrypting and signing a message works
  • Explain how message authentication codes work
  • Explain why a digital signature is superior to a cryptographic hash for validating software integrity

Framework Connections

The materials within this course focus on the Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) identified within the Specialty Areas listed below. Click to view Specialty Area details within the interactive National Cybersecurity Workforce Framework.