gpg -c: which cipher-algo?

mistersnorfles · 08-08-2007, 06:37 AM

As far as using gpg -c, which is the best cipher algorithm to choose (best meaning strongest, not fastest)?

Is conventional (keyless) encryption considered secure? How does it match up to private key encryption?

What types of attacks are there that are used to crack conventionally encrypted files?

Does anyone know of any good resources (preferably not too heavily mathematical) where I can read more about this?

Thanks,
Mr. Snorfles

brianmcgee · 08-08-2007, 07:27 AM

From the available ciphers (3DES, CAST5, BLOWFISH, AES, AES192, AES256, TWOFISH)

I would prefer the Advanced Encryption Standard with 256 bits if I would need a high-level cryptography. Although I would use asymmetric encryption where possible.

mistersnorfles · 08-08-2007, 07:30 AM

Why would you choose AES256 over the others? And what benefits are there for asymmetric encryption versus symmetric?

Which attacks make symmetric encryption more vulnerable?

--Mr. Snorfles

win32sux · 08-08-2007, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mistersnorfles

Why would you choose AES256 over the others?

Well, the choice comes down to personal preference, but if you read (for example) the Wikipedia page for AES you can get a good idea of why it's such a well-regarded block cipher.

Quote:

what benefits are there for asymmetric encryption versus symmetric?

Which attacks make symmetric encryption more vulnerable?

Once again, Wikipedia has a very informative page about this. There's also tons more info to be found via Google.