Key elements of cryptographic systems include:
•Encryption algorithm—Mathematically based function or calculation that encrypts or decrypts data.
•Encryption key—Piece of information similar to a password that makes the encryption or decryption process
unique. A user needs the correct key to access or decipher a message, as the wrong key converts the message into an unreadable form.
•Key length—Predetermined length for the key. The longer the key, the more difficult it is to compromise in a brute force attack where all possible key combinations are tried.