John Merlino wrote in post #1044105: > The % is modulus (remainder) operator and ^ is bitwise. In this > context, we take a file, and go through each character and encrypt it. > But why are the ^ and % operators used here: > > def encrypt(reader, writer) > key_index = 0 > while not reader.eof? > clear_char = reader.getc > encrypted_char = clear_char ^ @key[key_index] > writer.putc(encrypted_char) > key_index = (key_index + 1) % @key.size > end > end > > thanks for response
The use of XOR is a common operation in cryptography. I'm not sure how it all exactly works, but I have serious doubts about the security of this particular encrypt method. I would highly recommend using an actual encryption library, and never try to do it yourself. That is if you want any sense of real security at all. -- Posted via http://www.ruby-forum.com/. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Ruby on Rails: Talk" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rubyonrails-talk?hl=en.
