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Paid certificateIntermediateCyber Security

Cryptography I

Stanford's well-known course on how cryptographic primitives work and how to use them correctly, taught by Dan Boneh.

Taught byCoursera
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About this course

Cryptography I explains the inner workings of the primitives behind secure systems: stream and block ciphers, message integrity, authenticated encryption, key exchange and public-key encryption. It emphasises how real-world systems get cryptography wrong and includes optional programming projects.

Best for: Developers and CS students who want a rigorous understanding of applied cryptography.

What you will be able to do

  • Explain how stream and block ciphers work
  • Use message authentication codes and authenticated encryption correctly
  • Describe key exchange and public-key encryption
  • Recognise common cryptographic implementation mistakes

Syllabus and your progress

Tick modules off as you finish them on Coursera.

0 of 7 modules done

Plan your pace

At 4 hours a week you would finish in about 6 weeks, using the course time estimate above.

Progress is saved in this browser only. No account needed.

Cost and certificate

Paid certificate

On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.

Before you start: Basic discrete probability; Some programming experience for optional projects

Coursera sets the terms and can change them. Check the course page before you commit serious time, and tell us if something changed.

Quick answers

Is Cryptography I really free?
Yes, the course material is free on Coursera. On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.
How long does Cryptography I take?
Plan for about 24 hrs in total (Provider module estimates total about 24 hours (listed as 2 weeks at about 10 hours a week)). It is instructor-paced, so you can go faster or slower.
Do I need experience before Cryptography I?
It helps to have: Basic discrete probability; Some programming experience for optional projects.

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Cryptography I

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