Re: What is a key

From: Douglas A. Gwyn (DAGwyn_at_null.net)
Date: 06/21/03 

Date: Fri, 20 Jun 2003 23:44:27 -0400

Bill C wrote:
> I am trying to find out what it means to use a key in the encryption
> algorithm. Can anyone point me to a good source for this ?

Go to the children's section of your local public library
and look in the Subject index under "codes and ciphers".
Practically any book you find at that level will explain
it. Note that in common usage a "key" is a device that
will unlock a door if and only if it has the right exact
shape.

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