Which of the following best describes a one-way function?
A) a bit string that prevents generation of the same ciphertext
B) random bits used as input for key derivation functions
C) generates secret keys from a secret value
D) easy to compute but difficult and time consuming to reverse

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A one-way function is easy to compute but difficult and time consuming to reverse. This means that given an input, it is easy to generate an output, but given an output, it is difficult to determine the original input. This property is important in many cryptographic applications, such as generating digital signatures and hashing passwords. Option A is incorrect as it describes non-repeatability, which is a property of a nonce. Option B describes random numbers, which are used for key derivation, but not necessarily for one-way functions. Option C refers to a key derivation function, which is different from a one-way function.

Which of the Following Best Describes a One-Way Function