Cryptography
Also known as: Blockchain Security Science, Mathematical Encryption, Crypto Algorithms
The science of encoding and decoding information to secure communication, fundamental to blockchain security.
Cryptography is the study and application of techniques for securing communication and data through encoding methods. In blockchain, it ensures confidentiality, authenticity, and integrity of data via tools like hashing, digital signatures, public/private key cryptography, and zero-knowledge proofs. Cryptographic methods underpin wallets, transactions, consensus mechanisms, and smart contract security. It plays a central role in protecting user funds, maintaining decentralization, and enabling privacy features in protocols such as Zcash and Monero.