Basic Tools for Coding theory and Cryptography

Objectives:

The aim of the course is to provide a basis for advanced courses in coding theory and cryptography, as well as for a master project in these areas.

Content:

The course covers a collection of concepts and theoretical results, bounds, and techniques essential for carrying out advanced studies and research in the areas of coding theory and cryptology. Among these topics are

• Finite fields with applications to design of error correcting codes and to cryptographic primitives
• Linear feedback shift registers
• Boolean functions with applications in cryptography and coding theory

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student should have knowledge of

• finite fields theory used in cryptography and coding theory, including linear feedback shift registers
• basics of Boolean functions and their applications to cryptography
• basics of linear recurrent sequences and feedback shift registers
• basics of linear and cyclic codes

Skills:

The student is able to

• create computer programs using the concepts, data structures, and algorithms covered in the course
• explain and create proofs in coding theory and cryptography

General competence:

The students

• are familiar with mathematical foundations for cryptography and coding theory,
• can exchange opinions with others with relevant background and participate in discussions concerning the subject.