What is Confusion?
Confusion Definition: Provided by mixing (changing) the key values used during the repeated rounds of encryption. When the key is modified for each round, it provides added complexity that the attacker would encounter.
Understanding Confusion
Provided by mixing changing the key values used during the repeated rounds of encryption. When the key is modified for each round, it provides added complexity that the attacker would encounter. In cryptography, confusion is a property that ensures the relationship between the encryption key and the ciphertext is as complex as possible. This is typically achieved through substitution operations where each bit of the ciphertext depends on multiple parts of the key. Confusion works with diffusion to create strong encryption algorithms as defined in standards like FIPS 197 AES. Organizations implement confusion through the use of well-designed, standardized encryption algorithms rather than creating custom solutions. For example, the AES encryption algorithm uses S-boxes substitution boxes to provide confusion by creating a complex, non-linear relationship between the key and ciphertext. Related terms: Diffusion, Substitution, Permutation, Shannon principles, Cryptographic strength, Block cipher.