• Unit 2: Cryptographic Algorithms

    Often when someone hears the word "cryptography", they think only of encrypting or hiding data. However, the branch of math that is cryptography includes a wide variety of functions that serve many purposes besides just hiding or encrypting data. In fact, Bitcoin doesn't encrypt any of its blockchain data. What Bitcoin does do is hash and sign data.

    In this unit, we'll cover the basics of cryptography, including hashing and signing data, and explain the field's evolution from symmetric to asymmetric encryption. We'll then dig into public and private keys and how Bitcoin uses them in addresses and transactions.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

    • 2.1: What is Cryptography?

    • 2.2: Cryptographic Keys

    • 2.3: The Basics of Hashing

    • 2.4: Keys and Transaction Signatures

    • 2.5: Keys and Bitcoin Addresses

    • 2.6: Exercise: Encrypt and Decrypt Data

    • Unit 2 Assessment

      • Receive a grade