What are the common encryption algorithms and protocols?

 Theme: Encryption  Role: Cybersecurity Analyst  Function: Technology

  Interview Question for Cybersecurity Analyst:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Cybersecurity Analyst: Protect systems and data from cyber threats and breaches. This role falls within the Technology function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into Encryption with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  Encryption Algorithms: Common encryption algorithms include: AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman), DES (Data Encryption Standard), 3DES (Triple Data Encryption Standard), Blowfish, Twofish, and RC4 (Rivest Cipher 4)
  •  Symmetric Encryption: Symmetric encryption algorithms use the same key for both encryption and decryption. Examples include AES, DES, 3DES, Blowfish, and RC4
  •  Asymmetric Encryption: Asymmetric encryption algorithms use different keys for encryption and decryption. RSA is a widely used asymmetric encryption algorithm
  •  Hashing Algorithms: Hashing algorithms are used to verify data integrity and create digital signatures. Common hashing algorithms include MD5 (Message Digest 5), SHA-1 (Secure Hash Algorithm 1), SHA-256, and SHA-512
  •  Key Exchange Protocols: Key exchange protocols are used to securely exchange encryption keys. Common protocols include Diffie-Hellman, RSA key exchange, and Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH)
  •  Secure Communication Protocols: Secure communication protocols ensure confidentiality and integrity of data during transmission. Examples include SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) and IPsec (Internet Protocol Security)

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Knowledge & expertise: Assessing your understanding of encryption algorithms and protocols in the field of cybersecurity
  •  Technical skills: Evaluating your familiarity with commonly used encryption algorithms and protocols
  •  Problem-solving abilities: Determining your ability to select appropriate encryption algorithms and protocols for specific scenarios
  •  Awareness of industry standards: Assessing your knowledge of widely accepted encryption algorithms and protocols in the cybersecurity industry

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Lack of knowledge: Not being able to name any encryption algorithms or protocols
  •  Confusion: Mixing up encryption algorithms with other security concepts
  •  Outdated information: Mentioning outdated or deprecated encryption algorithms or protocols
  •  Inability to explain: Not being able to provide a clear explanation or examples of how encryption algorithms or protocols work

 Related

  Other questions asked for the Cybersecurity Analyst in Technology function. View details for the Cybersecurity Analyst here