AES and RSA Encryption/Decryption App - Technical & Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to building an encryption and decryption app using AES and RSA algorithms. The project is aimed at enhancing data security and understanding cryptographic techniques.
1.2 Scope
The application is intended for educational purposes, secure communication, and protecting sensitive data. It is suitable for developers, students, and security professionals.
1.3 Definitions & Acronyms
|
Acronym |
Definition |
|
AES |
Advanced Encryption Standard |
|
RSA |
Rivest–Shamir–Adleman encryption algorithm |
|
Key |
A string of characters used in cryptography |
|
Cipher |
An algorithm for encryption and decryption |
|
Plaintext |
Unencrypted data |
|
Ciphertext |
Encrypted data |
2. System Architecture
The AES and RSA Encryption/Decryption App consists of:
- **User Interface**: Allows users to input data and choose encryption or
decryption options.
- **AES Module**: Encrypts and decrypts data using symmetric key encryption.
- **RSA Module**: Encrypts and decrypts data using asymmetric key encryption.
- **Key Management**: Generates and manages keys securely.
3. Key Features
3.1 AES Encryption/Decryption
Provides fast and secure encryption and decryption using symmetric keys.
3.2 RSA Encryption/Decryption
Implements public-key cryptography for secure communication.
3.3 User-Friendly Interface
Allows users to perform cryptographic operations through a simple and intuitive interface.
4. Implementation Steps
1. **Setup Environment**: Install Python and libraries like
`pycryptodome`.
2. **Design UI**: Use a framework like Tkinter or Flask for the user interface.
3. **Develop AES Module**: Implement AES encryption and decryption functions.
4. **Develop RSA Module**: Implement RSA key generation, encryption, and
decryption functions.
5. **Integrate Modules**: Combine AES and RSA functionalities in the
application.
6. **Test Application**: Validate encryption and decryption processes with test
data.
5. Security Considerations
1. Store encryption keys securely and avoid hardcoding them
in the application.
2. Use strong and randomly generated keys for AES.
3. Protect RSA private keys from unauthorized access.
6. Tools and Technologies
- **Programming Language**: Python
- **Libraries**: pycryptodome for cryptographic operations
- **UI Frameworks**: Tkinter for desktop or Flask for web-based UI
- **Testing Tools**: Unit testing frameworks to validate functionality
7. Testing and Validation
1. Test AES and RSA functionalities with sample plaintext
and ciphertext.
2. Validate key generation, encryption, and decryption processes.
3. Ensure the application handles edge cases like invalid keys or corrupted
ciphertext.