Introduction to Cryptography
Cryptology (coming from the Greek words κρυπτός (kryptos) meaning "hidden'' and -λογία (-logia) denoting "study of'', and hence is the study of hidden writings) is a very broad subject. In its broadest sense, it is split into two sections: Cryptography (where γράφειν (graphein) means "wriring'') and Steganography (where στεγανός (steganos) means "covered'' or "protected'').
In essence, both these strands are all about hiding messages, but they go about it in slightly different ways, and these are discussed in the next couple of pages.
In essence, both these strands are all about hiding messages, but they go about it in slightly different ways, and these are discussed in the next couple of pages.
Of course, for as long as people have wanted to hide messages, there have been people that want to know what has been hidden (since if the information was not delicate, it would not need hiding in the first place). The study of breaking the code or cipher that has been used to encrypt a message is called Cryptanalysis. This is an integral part of Cryptology, as the Cryptography and Steganography would not have developed into what they are today if it were not for the people who were trying to break their codes.
For a very thorough look at Cryptanalysis you can see the Field Manual of the United States Army.
You can find here an Overview of the Timeline of Cryptography.
For a very thorough look at Cryptanalysis you can see the Field Manual of the United States Army.
You can find here an Overview of the Timeline of Cryptography.