Control strings guarantee symmetric generation not only of secret keys, but also of entire cryptographic protocols, when using open channels for data exchange. They also enable the lifecycle management of cryptographic protocols without requiring specialized hardware solutions.
If we are as objective as possible, this is a budget post-quantum solution for protecting digital data with high efficiency and low operating costs. Control strings are also a serious alternative to the widely used authentication certificates, without having their shortcomings.
The existing systems and solutions for the generation, transmission, utilization, storage, and destruction of encryption keys are confronted by at least two major problems:
- Ongoing need to prove logically and empirically the resistance against crypto attacks and breaches.
- The quantitative assessment is always based on/contingent on the level of development of the available systems/apparatus and software tools as of the specific period assessment.
In addition, when symmetric encryption algorithms with a common encryption key are used, the problems are magnified by issues with key distribution among system users, generally, or among session participants.
The control string implementation overcomes these hurdles by means of:
- Generate a common encryption key and manage it under a unified set of rules throughout the whole life-cycle of the sectret key; - Using an open communication channel without exchanging secret/classified information ; - Following strict compliance with existing and projected standardization and documentation requirements.
According to the classical theory and the standard encryption approaches to date, users cannot exchange encrypted messages unless they use a common encryption key.
As a corollary, users cannot exchange an encryption key with absolute security because they lack a secure channel to guarantee the confidentiality/security of the exchange.
However, this line of thinking is only partially true.
In reality, users can exchange or generate a common encryption key using an open communication channel. This is made possible by the so-called quantum effect of random events. In addition, users (or endpoints, or system nodes, or any equivalent in the context of securing any form of information structure at rest or data in transit) have the option to exchange in an implicit/obscure form the elements, procedures, and prescriptions needed to create and manage the encryption keys throughout their life cycle.