Cryptography and Hashing Overview from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

The Nature of Ownership

This week we will examine and study the ways that the blockchain keeps track of ownership transactions through the use of electronic ledgers. After an item changes hands many times, one can literally see each handoff by looking at the continuously growing string of data blocks in the blockchain.

Organizational Usage of Blockchain Technology

In this second week we will explore and discuss the vast array of benefits that a blockchain technology system can bring to different industries and business markets. We will also consider together how Blockchain technology is an ideal system to manage educational achievement and merit.

Cryptography and Hashing

The key to the blockchain’s success is the use of hash values and encryption. These are the same technologies that allow you to log into your favorite website without revealing your password and the same technologies that allow you to send a private, encrypted text message. By the end of the week you will apply a hashing algorithm to a character string and see the results.

Applying Hashes

As you will see in this final week, it is sometimes important to step back from a purely functional discussion of what the blockchain can do to what it means when it does it. You will apply cryptography and hashing to a simple scenario in order to determine the authenticity of a simulated email message.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces blockchain technology, which is a rapidly growing field, and has applications in various industries

Helps learners understand the nature of ownership, which is a foundational concept in blockchain technology

Demystifies cryptography and hashing, which are essential for authenticating users and securing transactions on the blockchain

Provides a hands-on approach to applying hashes, which helps learners develop a practical understanding of this key blockchain concept

Requires the purchase of two books, which can be an additional expense for learners

Reviews summary

Engaging overview of cryptography and hashing

Learners say this engaging course provides a strong overview of the fundamentals of cryptography and hashing. It's particularly well-suited for beginners in the field, providing a clear and structured introduction to the subject matter. Instructors are praised for their expertise and clear explanations, ensuring that learners grasp the concepts presented.

Course materials sufficient, additional purchases unnecessary.

"The "course" adds almost nothing to it."

Knowledgeable, clear explanations.

"Instructors are praised for their expertise."

"Clear explanations ensure that learners grasp the concepts presented."

Clear, structured introduction to cryptography and hashing.

"Provides a strong overview of the fundamentals of cryptography and hashing."

"Clear and structured introduction to the subject matter."

"Well-suited for beginners in the field."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cryptography and Hashing Overview with these activities:

Review blockchain technology basics

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Start by reviewing the basics of blockchain technology, its history, and its applications.

Browse courses on Blockchain

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Read about the history and development of blockchain technology.
Understand the key concepts of blockchain, such as decentralization, immutability, and transparency.
Explore different types of blockchain platforms and their use cases.

Join a blockchain study group or discussion forum

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Connect with other learners to discuss concepts, share insights, and support each other's learning.

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Find a study group or discussion forum that focuses on blockchain technology.
Join the group and actively participate in discussions.
Ask questions, share your thoughts, and engage with other members.

Follow tutorials on cryptography and hashing

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Gain a deeper understanding of cryptography and hashing, which are essential concepts for blockchain security.

Browse courses on Cryptography

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Find online tutorials or courses that explain the basics of cryptography and hashing.
Learn about different cryptographic algorithms and their applications in blockchain.
Practice implementing hashing algorithms and verifying digital signatures.

Five other activities

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Solve blockchain coding challenges

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Practice implementing blockchain concepts by solving coding challenges and building small blockchain applications.

Browse courses on Blockchain Development

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Find online coding challenges or tutorials that focus on blockchain development.
Implement blockchain concepts such as creating transactions, blocks, and mining in your code.
Test and debug your code to ensure it works as expected.

Attend a blockchain hackathon or workshop

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Immerse yourself in the blockchain community and learn from experts by attending a hackathon or workshop.

Browse courses on Blockchain Development

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Find a blockchain hackathon or workshop that aligns with your interests.
Register for the event and prepare to collaborate with other participants.
Attend the event and actively participate in the activities.

Network with blockchain professionals

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Build connections with people working in the blockchain industry to gain insights and explore career opportunities.

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Attend industry events and conferences where blockchain professionals gather.
Introduce yourself to people and initiate conversations about blockchain.
Follow up with contacts you make and nurture relationships.

Write a blog post or article about a blockchain application

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Demonstrate your understanding of blockchain by writing about a specific application or use case.

Browse courses on Blockchain Applications

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Choose a blockchain application or use case that interests you.
Research the topic and gather information from reliable sources.
Write an engaging blog post or article that explains the application, its benefits, and potential challenges.

Create a portfolio of blockchain resources

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Organize and review your notes, assignments, and other materials to improve retention and understanding.

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Gather all your course materials, including notes, assignments, presentations, and readings.
Organize the materials into a logical structure, such as by topic or module.
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your learning.

Career center

Learners who complete Cryptography and Hashing Overview will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Penetration Tester

Penetration Testers help to identify vulnerabilities in a company's IT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts help to protect companies from cyber attacks, such as hacking and data breaches.

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Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity Analysts help to protect companies from cyber attacks, such as hacking and data breaches.

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IT Auditor