What is the key size in bits for the Skipjack cipher?

Sharpen your skills for the WGU C839v5 / D334 Algorithms Exam. Use interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions with in-depth explanations to prepare effectively. Ace your test with confidence!

The key size for the Skipjack cipher is indeed 80 bits. Skipjack was designed by the National Security Agency (NSA) and is primarily known for its use in the Clipper chip, which was intended for secure voice communications. The algorithm operates with a block size of 64 bits, but what sets it apart is its relatively short key length of 80 bits. This size was chosen to provide a balance between security and performance during its time of implementation. The 80-bit key size allows for a significant number of possible keys, making brute-force attacks impractical with the computational resources available when Skipjack was developed. Thus, the features and historical context of Skipjack clearly underscore why 80 bits is the correct key size associated with this cipher.

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