In a stream cipher, what is the keystream?

Study for the WGU ITAS 2142 D830 Introduction to Cryptography Exam. Review flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In a stream cipher, what is the keystream?

Explanation:
In a stream cipher, the keystream is the pseudorandom sequence of bits produced by the keystream generator using the secret key (and often an initialization vector). This sequence is then combined with the plaintext to create the ciphertext, typically by performing an XOR operation. The keystream itself is not the secret key, nor is it the initial plaintext block. It’s also not ciphertext by itself. Decryption uses the same keystream to reverse the process. So the keystream is the sequence that is combined with plaintext to produce ciphertext.

In a stream cipher, the keystream is the pseudorandom sequence of bits produced by the keystream generator using the secret key (and often an initialization vector). This sequence is then combined with the plaintext to create the ciphertext, typically by performing an XOR operation. The keystream itself is not the secret key, nor is it the initial plaintext block. It’s also not ciphertext by itself. Decryption uses the same keystream to reverse the process. So the keystream is the sequence that is combined with plaintext to produce ciphertext.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy