Keccak Key Points
- Keccak is a cryptographic hash function that was selected as the winner of the NIST hash function competition in 2012.
- Keccak is the basis for the SHA-3 (Secure Hash Algorithm 3), a cryptographic hash function standard.
- It is recognized for its high level of security, efficiency and flexibility.
- Keccak is also used as a core component in other cryptographic systems, such as encryption and signature schemes.
Keccak Definition
Keccak is a family of cryptographic hash functions that was designed by Guido Bertoni, Joan Daemen, Michaël Peeters, and Gilles Van Assche. Keccak was selected as the winner of the NIST hash function competition in 2012 and serves as the basis for the SHA-3 standard. It is known for its security, efficiency, and flexibility.
What is Keccak?
Keccak is a cryptographic function that is used to produce a fixed-size output from variable-size input. It is a part of a family of cryptographic hash functions. It uses the sponge construction where data is absorbed into the function, then squeezed out, hence, it is often referred to as the sponge function.
Keccak is designed to be secure against all known cryptographic attacks and it can be used in a wide range of hardware and software systems due to its flexibility and efficiency.
Keccak is also used in other cryptographic systems such as digital signatures, pseudo-random number generators, and authenticated encryption.
Who Developed Keccak?
Keccak was developed by a team of cryptographers: Guido Bertoni, Joan Daemen, Michaël Peeters, and Gilles Van Assche. All of them have a strong background in cryptography and have contributed significantly to the field.
When was Keccak Developed?
Keccak was developed and submitted to the NIST hash function competition in 2008. It was then selected as the winner in 2012.
Where is Keccak Used?
Keccak is used in various applications that require secure hashing. These include, but are not limited to, password storage, digital signatures, message integrity checks, and data deduplication. It is also used as a core component in other cryptographic systems.
Why is Keccak Important?
Keccak is important because it offers a high level of security, efficiency, and flexibility. It is resistant to all known cryptographic attacks and can be implemented in a wide range of hardware and software systems. It also serves as the basis for the SHA-3 standard, making it a fundamental component in modern cryptography.
How does Keccak Work?
Keccak works by using a sponge construction where data is absorbed into the function in blocks, processed, and then squeezed out. During the absorption phase, each block of data is XORed with the state of the function, then transformed. During the squeezing phase, output blocks are produced from the function’s state. This process continues until all output has been produced.
