Asymmetric Key Algorithms
Previously you learned about asymmetric key algorithms and you should understand that asymmetric encryption requires two keys: public and private. As a review, using the flashcards define asymmetric key encryption, public key, private key, and digital certificate. Then read the section on asymmetric encryption.
In encryption and hashing, a salt is random data that is added to the input of a one-way function (hash). The primary function of salting is to defend against dictionary attacks versus a list of password hashes and against pre-computed rainbow table attacks.
A new salt is randomly generated for each hash generated. In a typical setting, the salt and the hash key are concatenated into the hash function.
Figure 4 – Adding salt to the hash function
Hashes are used to create pseudorandom numbers which can be used as a salt when hashing passwords for storage.