This book, "A Course in Number Theory and Cryptography" by Neal Koblitz, is a comprehensive introduction to the field of number theory and its applications in cryptography. The second edition, published in 1994, has been updated to reflect the expanding field of cryptography and the increasing use of advanced number theory techniques. The book is designed for readers with minimal background in algebra or number theory, emphasizing algorithmic approaches and practical applications. Key features of the book include: - **Algorithmic Approach**: Emphasizes the efficiency of techniques and includes extensive exercises. - **Recent Applications**: Includes recent developments such as zero-knowledge proofs, the quadratic sieve factoring method, and the use of elliptic curves for primality testing. - **Chapters**: Divided into six main chapters, covering elementary number theory, finite fields, cryptography, public key systems, primality and factoring, and elliptic curves. - **Supplementary Material**: Additions in the second edition include new sections on zero-knowledge proofs, the quadratic sieve, and the use of elliptic curves for primality testing. The book is suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students, providing a solid foundation in number theory and its applications in modern cryptography.This book, "A Course in Number Theory and Cryptography" by Neal Koblitz, is a comprehensive introduction to the field of number theory and its applications in cryptography. The second edition, published in 1994, has been updated to reflect the expanding field of cryptography and the increasing use of advanced number theory techniques. The book is designed for readers with minimal background in algebra or number theory, emphasizing algorithmic approaches and practical applications. Key features of the book include: - **Algorithmic Approach**: Emphasizes the efficiency of techniques and includes extensive exercises. - **Recent Applications**: Includes recent developments such as zero-knowledge proofs, the quadratic sieve factoring method, and the use of elliptic curves for primality testing. - **Chapters**: Divided into six main chapters, covering elementary number theory, finite fields, cryptography, public key systems, primality and factoring, and elliptic curves. - **Supplementary Material**: Additions in the second edition include new sections on zero-knowledge proofs, the quadratic sieve, and the use of elliptic curves for primality testing. The book is suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students, providing a solid foundation in number theory and its applications in modern cryptography.