Cryptography without the maths

Cryptography underpins almost all of modern security, and this module explains it in plain terms, no maths required. Across five short topics you will learn why we encrypt (and what encryption is not), symmetric versus asymmetric keys, hashing versus encryption, how HTTPS and certificates really work (encrypting a real message yourself), and digital signatures and PKI. Each idea is taught through a real case.

1. 1
   Why we encryptStart

   Understand what encryption really protects, and what it cannot, then see how a lost laptop becomes a breach, or a non-event.

   ~15 min3 ideas1 real case1 lab
2. 2
   Symmetric vs asymmetricUp next

   Learn the two kinds of encryption and the clever idea that lets total strangers share secrets, the breakthrough HTTPS is built on.

   ~15 min3 ideas1 real case1 lab
3. 3
   Hashing vs encryptionUp next

   Learn the crucial difference between one-way hashing and reversible encryption, then see the breach where using the wrong one exposed 153 million passwords.

   ~15 min3 ideas1 real case1 lab
4. 4
   HTTPS, TLS & certificatesUp next

   See how HTTPS actually secures the web, encrypt a real message in your browser, then see what happens when the trust behind certificates breaks.

   ~18 min3 ideas1 real case1 lab
5. 5
   Digital signatures & PKIUp next

   Learn how cryptography proves who sent a message and that it is unaltered, then see malware abuse that very trust to look legitimate.

   ~16 min3 ideas1 real case1 lab