Re: simple crypto solution(s)?

On 03/18/18 17:31, Lister wrote:
> List,
> 
> I am trying to solve a little problem, but since I don't have much idea
> about cryptography tools on linux, I would like to get some pointers
> from this list. Also, if the problem I have develops to something big,
> there may be a paid consulting opportunity here as well
> 
> Two entities (say A and B, non-humans) are connected through a high
> speed, point to point, short distance (say 1m max) serial link. Both
> entities have their own OS and file systems. I need to create a key
> (private/public) pair and send some information (less than 256 bytes) as
> a part of the handshake procedure between A and B (I already have a
> custom protocol to do handshake). Also, I am not bothered about key
> rings or publishing the public keys as the project targets a private
> system, not connected to internet, but _CANNOT_ use symmetric keys.
> 
> My questions are:
> 
> How do I create a (moderately) strong key pair in linux for asymmetric
> encryption?

OpenSSH can be used to create public/private keys.

> What are the tools used?
> 
> Do these tools have APIs and source code available (this is most important)

OpenSSH has a library which implements the SSH protocol, for both
client and server.

OpenSSL includes libcrypto and libssl which implement the TLS and SSL
protocols used by web servers.

The first thing I think of when I hear that someone has their own
encryption or handshake scheme is that they are either an expert in
encryption or that they will be hacked sooner rather than later.

-- 
Michael Eager    [email protected]
1960 Park Blvd., Palo Alto, CA 94306