How to Become A Cryptographer?

What is cryptography? who is a cryptographer? , How to become a cryptographer? , responsibilities?, What is required to become a cryptographer?, required skills, certification? In this article, we will cover all the required things for how to become a cryptographer

What is Cryptography

It is a unique approach of defending communications and information through the use of codes so that only those for whom the information is envisioned can read and process it. Cryptography is the combination of two words – Crypto means hidden or vault and Graphy means writing.

In computer parlance, cryptography refers to secure information and communication methods derived from mathematical notions and a set of rule-based calculations called algorithms to transform messages in ways that are hard to decipher. These deterministic algorithms are used for, digital signing, cryptographic key generation, verification to protect data privacy, web browsing on the internet, and confidential communications such as credit card transactions and email.

If you want to keep the information secret, you have two possible strategies:

  • Hiding the existence of the information
  • Making the information unintelligible

Cryptography is nothing but the art and science of breaking encoded data. As a branch of mathematics, it encompassing both cryptography and cryptanalysis is cryptology.

Who is a Cryptographer?

A cryptographer is somebody who develops ciphers, algorithms, and security systems to encrypt sensitive information and provide privacy for individuals and corporations. Previously, encryption was once used exclusively for military drives, but in recent times, it is desirable for all kinds of uses.

Responsibilities

As a Cryptographer, you are entitled to put into code of ciphers, algorithms, and security systems. Being a cryptographer, you are in comprehensive control of those codes and defensive those codes from the cyber hackers. Some comprehensive and definite responsibilities might include:

  • Guarantying financial data protection available to lawful account holders
  • Creating security systems that guard against any revelations
  • Ensuring that all critical information is defended from being edited, copied or deleted
  • Analysing data to solve any security problems using mathematical and statistical codes
  • Testing systems for any vulnerabilities and ensure they are accurate and reliable
  • Solving and security problems for the businesses or government
  • Updating existing research and strategies for applications and coding

Cryptography is a career with options working for insurance agencies, the government, the FBI, universities, and many more.

According to your employer, definite job responsibilities will be modified. A cryptographer that works for the government will have diverse prospects than one that functions for a key university.

What is required to become a cryptographer?

It’s significant to complete the research not only of the cryptographer’s job responsibilities but also what is obligatory to gain this critical position. Schooling plays an imperative role in requirements. The technical degree route is what you’ll need to look into. Most employers will expect at least a bachelor’s degree in either Mathematics, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering. Some recruiters may accept non-technical degrees, nevertheless, be prepared to back that degree up with a wide range of experience.

  • Master of Science or Doctorate will be a Plus
  • Non-technical Degrees with high work experience
  • Bachelor Degree in Computer Science, or Computer Engineering

Ongoing your education with a Master’s of Science or doctorate will enhance your resume and employment opportunities.

Work Experience

If you are interested in applying to the National Security Agency, for instance, be prepared to have a robust background behind you. It might take a little time and research on your desired place of employment to make sure you are fully prepared before submitting that application for your dream job.

National Security Agency (NSA)

As a renowned organization, the National Security Agency focuses on various major security concepts including, secure code, encrypting, safety, and more. It defends the government and this country by aiding the armed forces and military operations. The NSA can be an outstanding place for outreach for employment. NSA also runs summer programs for undergrads working towards a degree in mathematics or computer science.

Career Options

If becoming a cryptographer is your career choice and you have just graduated, where do you go to find a career in the domain and what can you do? Some are privileged enough to land a position right after getting their degree. Some roles they might take on include the following:

  • Financial Consultant
  • University Professor
  • Security consultant

These three choices might be at the highest of the list on the cryptographer career path.

Required Skills

Technical skills are the spine of a fruitful career as a cryptographer. There are great knowledge, expertise and information required particularly due to the high risk of this career.

Hard Skills

  • Basic understanding of key programming languages such as C, C++, Java, and Python
  • Strong math skills; Linear, matrix algebra, discrete mathematics
  • Basic understanding of complexity theory
  • Information theory
  • Number theory
  • Knowledge in digital signatures, encryption, key exchange
  • Symmetric Cryptography: knowledge of hash functions, symmetric encryption, and message authentication codes
  • Skilled in data structures and algorithms

Soft Skills

  • Own good judgment skill
  • Accepting of new challenges
  • Clever
  • Interest in problem-solving
  • Interest in solving puzzles
  • Critical thinker
  • Trustworthy

Certifications

There is presently only one specified certificate that is associated with cryptography. A Certified Encryption Specialist (CES) is what the EC-Council has shaped. There are other kinds of certificates associated with cybersecurity on a related note.

Several institutes in India are engaged in providing research opportunities and specialized courses in cryptography. Various technical institute IISc, IITs, NITs and other mathematical and statistical institutes such as ISI and University of Calcutta are providing research in cryptography

In the fast-growing world of cybersecurity, a stimulating and exciting career awaits you. There is a wide diversity of career paths as a cryptographer and the field is going to continue to flourish.

You can follow us on InstagramLinkedinTwitter & Reddit for daily Cybersecurity, Hacking news, and Hacking Tips & tricks updates

You may also like...