In this video, we cover hashing and cipher techniques as covered on the Information Systems and Controls ISC CPA exam.
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Hashing is a technique used to convert a given input into a fixed-size string of bytes, usually a digest that represents the original string. This process is performed by a hash function. Some of the key characteristics of hashing include:

Irreversibility: A hash function is a one-way function, meaning that it is computationally infeasible to reverse the process (i.e., to retrieve the original input from its hash output).
Determinism: The same input will always produce the same output through a particular hash function, regardless of how many times it is processed.
Fixed Size: No matter the size of the input, the output (hash) will always have a fixed size, determined by the hash function used (e.g., SHA-256 always produces a 256-bit hash).
Uniqueness: Ideally, no two different inputs should produce the same hash output. When two different inputs produce the same hash output, it is called a collision.
Common uses of hashing include verifying data integrity, indexing data, and securing passwords by storing their hash values rather than the actual passwords.

Cipher Techniques
Cipher techniques are used to convert plaintext into ciphertext through a process known as encryption, and converting it back into plaintext via decryption. Ciphers rely on algorithms and keys to perform encryption and decryption. Cipher techniques can be divided into two main types:

Symmetric Key Ciphers: These use the same key for both encryption and decryption. Examples include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and DES (Data Encryption Standard). They are generally faster and are used for encrypting large volumes of data.
Asymmetric Key Ciphers: These use a pair of keys — a public key and a private key. The public key is used for encryption and the private key is used for decryption. Examples include RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography). They are typically used for secure key exchange, digital signatures, and encrypting small amounts of data.
Practical Applications
Data Security: Both hashing and ciphers are critical for securing data, whether it's being stored or transmitted.
Digital Signatures: Hashing combined with asymmetric encryption facilitates digital signatures, which verify the authenticity and integrity of digital messages and documents.
Secure Communication: Cipher techniques are fundamental to protocols like HTTPS, securing communications on the internet.
Each of these techniques plays a vital role in modern security systems, protecting data from unauthorized access and ensuring the integrity of information in digital communications.









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