Cryptography and Hashing Overview

University of California, Irvine via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/crypto-hashing

Introduction

## Course Review: Cryptography and Hashing Overview In the rapidly evolving world of digital technology, gaining a solid understanding of blockchain technology, cryptography, and hashing is essential for both professionals and enthusiasts alike. Coursera’s course titled **"Cryptography and Hashing Overview"** serves as an excellent gateway for learners looking to enhance their knowledge in these critical areas of computer science and security. ### Course Overview The course is designed to provide a comprehensive dive into blockchain technology, particularly focusing on the nature of ownership and decentralized transaction handling. Through a structured syllabus, learners will gain insights into how blockchain can securely manage ownership transactions via electronic ledgers. The course effectively demystifies cryptography and hashing, key technologies that empower authentication and privacy in digital communications and transactions. ### What You’ll Learn 1. **The Nature of Ownership**: In the first week, you will explore how blockchain tracks ownership through electronic ledgers. The concept is illustrated through real-world examples that highlight the transparency and security offered by blockchain systems. By the end of this week, learners will understand how each transaction forms a continuous record and the significance of this feature. 2. **Organizational Usage of Blockchain Technology**: The second week delves into the diverse applications of blockchain technology across various industries. This week emphasizes the transformative potential of blockchain solutions in business markets, including educational frameworks where accomplishments can be verified and securely stored. Expect engaging discussions and case studies showing blockchain's impact on efficiency and trust in organizations. 3. **Cryptography and Hashing**: Week three focuses on the crux of security in blockchain: cryptography and hashing. The course explains how these technologies function and their application in everyday online activities. You will have the chance to apply a hashing algorithm to a string of characters, reinforcing your understanding of these vital concepts through hands-on engagement. 4. **Applying Hashes**: The final week encourages students to reflect on the implications of blockchain functionality. You will apply what you've learned by simulating a scenario to verify the authenticity of an email message using cryptographic principles. This practical application solidifies your understanding of how cryptography protects user privacy and ensures data integrity. ### Course Requirements To maximize the learning experience, participants need to purchase two specific books: - **Drescher, D. (2017). Blockchain Basics: A Non-Technical Introduction in 25 Steps.** (ISBN-13: 978-1484226032) - The course also suggests other supplementary materials, fostering a deeper comprehension of the topics discussed. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros: - **Structured Learning**: The course is well-organized, making it easy to follow and digest complex information. - **Practical Applications**: Each week offers real-world scenarios that demonstrate how blockchain and cryptography intersect with daily life and industries. - **Community Engagement**: The course provides access to a learning community where participants can discuss ideas, share insights, and support one another. #### Cons: - **Cost of Materials**: The requirement to purchase books might be a barrier for some learners. - **Time Commitment**: The course requires dedication and time, which may not align with everyone's schedule. ### Recommendation I highly recommend **"Cryptography and Hashing Overview"** for anyone interested in blockchain and digital security. It caters to both beginners and those with some background knowledge, making complex subjects approachable. By the end of the course, you will not only gain theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that you can apply in various fields, including technology, finance, and education. Whether you are looking to enhance your career or deepen your understanding of these transformative technologies, this course serves as a robust foundation for your learning journey. Enroll today and take a significant step towards mastering blockchain technology and its underpinnings!

Syllabus

The Nature of Ownership

This week we will examine and study the ways that the blockchain keeps track of ownership transactions through the use of electronic ledgers. After an item changes hands many times, one can literally see each handoff by looking at the continuously growing string of data blocks in the blockchain.

Organizational Usage of Blockchain Technology

In this second week we will explore and discuss the vast array of benefits that a blockchain technology system can bring to different industries and business markets. We will also consider together how Blockchain technology is an ideal system to manage educational achievement and merit.

Cryptography and Hashing

The key to the blockchain’s success is the use of hash values and encryption. These are the same technologies that allow you to log into your favorite website without revealing your password and the same technologies that allow you to send a private, encrypted text message. By the end of the week you will apply a hashing algorithm to a character string and see the results.

Applying Hashes

As you will see in this final week, it is sometimes important to step back from a purely functional discussion of what the blockchain can do to what it means when it does it. You will apply cryptography and hashing to a simple scenario in order to determine the authenticity of a simulated email message.