Running Key Cipher: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the Key Features, Encryption Process, Decryption Process, and Use Cases of Running Key Cipher | Karthikeyan Nagaraj

Karthikeyan Nagaraj
3 min readApr 8, 2023

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Introduction:

Cryptography is an essential tool for keeping sensitive information safe and secure.

Running key cipher, also known as the Vernam cipher, is a type of encryption that uses a continuously changing key to encrypt plaintext.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to running key cipher, including its key features, encryption process, decryption process, and use cases.

Key Features of Running Key Cipher:

  • Running key cipher is a symmetric key encryption method that uses the same key for both encryption and decryption.
  • The key used in running key cipher is typically longer than the plaintext, and it is generated by combining the plaintext with a secret key.
  • The key used in running key cipher changes with each character of the plaintext, making it difficult for attackers to decipher the message.
  • Running key cipher is a type of polyalphabetic substitution cipher, which means it uses multiple alphabets to…

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Karthikeyan Nagaraj

Entrepreneur | Writer | Cyber Security Consultant | AI Researcher