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Global Accelerated Learning • Est. 1999
Glossary Term Block Cipher

Training Camp • Cybersecurity Glossary

What is Block Cipher?

A block cipher is a symmetric algorithm encrypting fixed-size data blocks with a key; AES is the modern standard used with modes like CBC and GCM.

Glossary > Cryptography & PKI > Block Cipher

Understanding Block Cipher

A block cipher is a symmetric-key encryption algorithm that transforms fixed-size blocks of plaintext into ciphertext using a secret key, typically operating on 64-bit or 128-bit blocks. Examples include AES, which uses 128-bit blocks with 128, 192, or 256-bit keys, and the legacy DES and 3DES algorithms. Block ciphers are combined with modes of operation such as CBC, CTR, or GCM to securely encrypt data larger than a single block.

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