What is Key Length?
Key Length Definition: The size of a key, usually measured in bits, that a cryptographic algorithm uses in ciphering or deciphering protected information.
Understanding Key Length
The size of a key, usually measured in bits, that a cryptographic algorithm uses in ciphering or deciphering protected information. Key length represents the size of the cryptographic key measured in bits, directly affecting the security of the encryption by determining the number of possible keys 2^n where n is the key length. Longer keys generally provide stronger security against brute force attacks but may impact performance. Key length requirements are specified in standards like NIST SP 800-57 and various regulatory frameworks. Organizations evaluate work factors when selecting encryption algorithms, key lengths, and cryptographic protocols appropriate for their security requirements and threat environment. For example, a government agency protecting classified information would implement encryption with sufficient work factor to protect against nation-state attackers with advanced computing resources, choosing algorithms and key lengths that provide protection exceeding the required classification timeframes, with plans for cryptographic agility as computing advances. Related terms: Cryptographic strength, Computational security, Key length, Brute force attack, Cryptanalysis, Security margin, Quantum computing, Cryptographic agility.