Description: The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is a widely used symmetric encryption algorithm designed to protect sensitive data through the use of encryption keys. AES operates on 128-bit data blocks and allows for key lengths of 128, 192, or 256 bits, providing a high level of security. This standard is known for its efficiency and speed, making it ideal for applications that require fast data processing. AES is based on a substitution-permutation network structure, making it resistant to various types of cryptographic attacks. Its implementation is versatile, found in a wide range of devices and applications, from communication systems to data storage. The adoption of AES has been supported by organizations such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which selected it as the federal encryption standard in 2001, replacing the older DES (Data Encryption Standard). The robustness of AES has made it a fundamental pillar in modern information security, being used in security protocols such as SSL/TLS and in Wi-Fi networks to protect data transmission.
History: The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) was established in 2001 by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) following a selection process that began in 1997. This process sought a replacement for the older DES standard, which had become vulnerable to attacks due to its short key length. In 1998, the Rijndael algorithm, developed by Belgian cryptographers Vincent Rijmen and Joan Daemen, was selected as the new standard, giving rise to AES.
Uses: AES is used in a variety of applications, including data protection in wireless networks, file and hard drive encryption, and in security protocols such as SSL/TLS for secure data transmission over the Internet. It is also common in messaging applications and cloud storage, where privacy and security are essential.
Examples: A practical example of AES usage is its implementation in wireless security protocols, which secure networks by encrypting transmitted data. Another example is the use of AES in cloud storage applications, where files are encrypted to protect user information.
