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DD2448 Foundations of Cryptography 7.5 credits

Course memo Spring 2026-60233

Version 1 – 02/16/2026, 7:07:51 AM

Course offering

krypto26 (Start date 16 Mar 2026, English)

Language Of Instruction

English

Offered By

EECS/Theoretical Computer Science

Course memo Spring 2026

Headings denoted with an asterisk ( * ) is retrieved from the course syllabus version Spring 2026

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

Classic cryptosystems. What does secure encryption mean? Background in information theory, entropy. Symmetric encryption algorithms such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). Open key systems for encryption and digital signatures e.g. RSA, ElGamal and Schnorr signatures. Cryptographically secure hash functions in theory and practice (SHA). Properties and examples of pseudo-random number generators. Connections to complexity theory.

Intended learning outcomes

After passing the course, the student shall be able to

  • discuss the following basic concepts in cryptography: symmetric and asymmetric encryption, digital signatures, cryptographic hash functions, and strong pseudo-random number generator
  • give examples of the above concepts
  • perform simple own analyzes of cryptographic constructions such as cryptographic systems and cryptographic protocols
  • determine the reliability of analyzes of cryptographic constructions such as cryptographic systems and cryptographic protocols
  • summarize the content of technical articles on cryptography and cryptographic protocols

in order to be able to work with analysis and development of cryptographic protocols and systems.

Preparations before course start

Recommended prerequisites

Knowledge equivalent to either one of the courses DD1352 Algorithms, Data Structures and Complexity or DD2354 Algorithms and Complexity and knowledge of probability theory, mathematics and algorithm theory acquired in the mandatory courses of the D or F program.

Literature

No information inserted

Examination and completion

Grading scale

A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Examination

  • GRU1 - Group work, 2.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
  • INDA - Individual home assignment, 5.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

No information inserted

Round Facts

Start date

16 Mar 2026

Course offering

  • krypto26 Spring 2026-60233

Language Of Instruction

English

Offered By

EECS/Theoretical Computer Science

Contacts

Course Coordinator

Teachers

Examiner