Systems Security Certified Practitioner – SSCP – Question0672

Which type of algorithm is considered to have the highest strength per bit of key length of any of the asymmetric algorithms?

A. Rivest, Shamir, Adleman (RSA)
B. El Gamal
C. Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)
D. Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The other answers are not correct because:
“Rivest, Shamir, Adleman (RSA)” is incorrect because RSA is a “traditional” asymmetric algorithm. While it is reasonably strong, it is not considered to be as strong as ECC based systems.
“El Gamal” is incorrect because it is also a “traditional” asymmetric algorithm and not considered as strong as ECC based systems.
“Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)” is incorrect because the question asks specifically about asymmetric algorithms and AES is a symmetric algorithm.
References: Official ISC2 Guide page: 258 All in One Third Edition page: 638 The RSA Crypto FAQ: http://www.rsa.com/rsalabs/node.asp?id=2241