A message authentication code (MAC) is a small block of data attached to a message to verify its integrity. The MAC is created at the same time as the message, and when the recipient opens it, the message content is run through an algorithm to create a new MAC, which is compared to the original. Different methods can be used to create a MAC, and it is one of several security layers designed to keep messages safe. Cryptography is constantly evolving, and people interested in data security need to think ahead to build strong security systems.
A message authentication code (MAC) is a small block of data attached to a message that the recipient uses to verify the integrity of the message. One might think that it is similar to the wax seals that used to be placed on letters and formal correspondence to verify the sender’s identification and confirm that the message had not been opened. These codes are used when sending certain types of encrypted or secure data so that the sender can verify and confirm that the message has not been compromised. Message authentication codes can appear on messages such as electronic fund transfers and emails.
When a message is generated, the MAC is created at the same time. The message is sent to the recipient, and when the recipient opens it, the message content is run through an algorithm to create a new message authentication code. This new code is compared to the code sent along with the original message. If the codes are the same, the message is authenticated. If there is a difference, it indicates that something about the message changed between the sender and the recipient.
The process of generating and comparing MACs usually happens behind the scenes. The sender and recipient trust the encryption programs they use to handle the MAC. The program that generates the message authentication code is written by a programmer familiar with the needs of cryptography. Custom applications can be written for high security situations, or people can use generic programs that are readily available.
Several different methods can be used to create a MAC, including a stream cipher, hash function, or block cipher. Also known as a checksum, the MAC can be one of several security layers that are designed to keep prying eyes away from messages and to ensure that messages are not tampered with or altered without alerting the recipient. When a recipient opens a message that has been compromised, an alert will be displayed to tell the user that the message authentication code does not match and that there is a problem with the message.
Cryptography is a constantly evolving process. As new techniques are developed, new methods for deciphering them are also created. People interested in data security need to think several steps ahead to predict methods for breaking cryptography in order to build strong security systems. The development of supercomputers has helped with this process by allowing cryptographers to develop and experiment with highly advanced encryption methods.
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