Title: High-Speed Block Cipher Hardware Accelerator: FPGA/ASIC Implementation and Performance Comparison This project, "High-Speed Block Cipher Hardware Accelerator," focuses on designing and implementing hardware accelerators for block ciphers utilizing FPGA or ASIC technology. We aim to evaluate their performance gains when compared to software-based implementations. Notably, our work centers on a modified version of the AES algorithm, enhancing its efficiency beyond conventional standards. This research addresses the pressing need for high-speed data encryption and holds the potential to revolutionize cryptographic systems, offering both security and efficiency in the digital era

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Background of Problem:

In today's digital age, data security is of paramount importance. The exponential growth in the volume and importance of digital data has necessitated the development of robust encryption techniques to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and tampering. Cryptography, the science of securing communication, plays a vital role in ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data. Block ciphers are a fundamental component of modern cryptographic systems. These ciphers operate on fixed-size blocks of data and are employed in various applications, including secure communication, data storage, and access control. While software-based encryption has traditionally been the standard for implementing block ciphers, the growing demand for faster and more secure encryption methods has led to the exploration of hardware-based solutions. FPGAs and ASICs offer the potential to significantly improve the speed and efficiency of block cipher operations. They can be customized to perform specific cryptographic algorithms, leading to faster and more streamlined encryption and decryption processes. The goal of this project is to explore the design and implementation of such hardware accelerators and evaluate their performance gains in comparison to software-based implementations. In a digital landscape where data security and speed are crucial, the outcomes of this research have broad-reaching societal implications. The ability to enhance the performance of block ciphers through dedicated hardware accelerators can positively impact various applications, including secure communication, financial transactions, and data protection. This project seeks to bridge the gap between the demand for high-speed encryption and the available technological solutions, ultimately contributing to a more secure and efficient digital environment.

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