Cryptography: A Very Short Introduction

by Fred Piper and Sean Murphy
Cryptography: A Very Short Introduction cover
Good Books rating 3.87
Science and Innovation
Technical
  • ID: 5618
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780192882233
  • Published: 2025-02-27
  • Reviews: 3

Cryptography is an integral part of our daily lives, often working behind the scenes to secure our digital interactions. This updated edition by Sean Murphy and Rachel Player demystifies the science of cryptography, explaining its mechanisms and its profound influence on contemporary society. The book delves into recent developments such as blockchain technology and post-quantum cryptography, providing a comprehensive overview of how these innovations are shaping the future of security and privacy. Beyond the technical aspects, the authors explore the broader implications of cryptography, highlighting its role in safeguarding information and enabling secure communications. Whether you're a curious novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this book offers valuable insights into the world of cryptography and its evolving landscape.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-24
informative 3.60

The book is described as a clear and informative introduction to cryptography and data protection. It is noted for its relevance to social and political issues.

The reviewer describes the book as a clear and informative introduction to cryptography and data protection. They appreciate the book's relevance to current social and political issues, making it a timely and important read. The book's ability to explain complex topics in an accessible manner is particularly praised, making it a valuable resource for understanding the broader implications of cryptography.

Quick quotes

    This book is a clear and informative introduction to cryptography and data protection--subjects of considerable social and political importance.

    It is noted for its relevance to current social and political issues.

    The book's ability to explain complex topics in an accessible manner is particularly praised.

Carol Marsh · Carol Marsh · 2025-10-24
clear 4.00

The book is praised for providing a very clear introduction to cryptography. It is noted for its accessibility and the way it explains key concepts.

Carol Marsh highly recommends this book for its clear and concise introduction to cryptography. She appreciates how the book breaks down complex topics into understandable concepts, making it an excellent resource for those new to the subject. The book's readability and the way it explains key concepts are particularly highlighted, making it a valuable addition to anyone's library.

Quick quotes

    Overall it provides a very clear introduction to cryptography.

    Cryptography, A Very Short Introduction by Fred Piper and Sean Murphy is a great resource for understanding the basics of cryptography.

    The book's readability and the way it explains key concepts are particularly highlighted.

LitCritPop · 2020-03-03
informative 4.00

The book is acknowledged as a complex subject, but it serves its purpose well. The writing is clear and accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of readers.

The reviewer notes that cryptography, by its nature, is a complex subject. However, the book does an excellent job of making this intricate topic accessible. They appreciate the clarity and the depth of the explanations, which make it suitable for both beginners and those with some prior knowledge. The book's ability to demystify cryptographic techniques is particularly praised, making it a valuable resource for understanding the societal implications of cryptography.

Quick quotes

    Cryptography, by necessity, is a complex subject. If it were simple, it wouldn't serve its purpose.

    The writing is clear and accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of readers.

    The book's ability to demystify cryptographic techniques is particularly praised.

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