Which cipher is often configured with a 40-bit export-limited key length?

Prepare for the Network Security (NETSEC) 3 Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations. Get exam-ready efficiently!

Multiple Choice

Which cipher is often configured with a 40-bit export-limited key length?

Explanation:
Export-limited 40-bit keys came from regulatory restrictions in the past, so vendors offered cipher options with only 40 bits to satisfy export rules. RC4 is the cipher most commonly associated with these export-grade configurations in real-world deployments (notably in early SSL/TLS and VPN setups), where the per-session key could be limited to 40 bits. That history makes RC4 the best example of a cipher configured with a 40-bit export-limited length. DES did have export-grade 40-bit variants too, but the scenario most test-worthy today centers on RC4 due to its widespread use in export-grade SSL/VPN contexts. AES and Twofish use longer, fixed key sizes and are not associated with 40-bit export limitations.

Export-limited 40-bit keys came from regulatory restrictions in the past, so vendors offered cipher options with only 40 bits to satisfy export rules. RC4 is the cipher most commonly associated with these export-grade configurations in real-world deployments (notably in early SSL/TLS and VPN setups), where the per-session key could be limited to 40 bits. That history makes RC4 the best example of a cipher configured with a 40-bit export-limited length. DES did have export-grade 40-bit variants too, but the scenario most test-worthy today centers on RC4 due to its widespread use in export-grade SSL/VPN contexts. AES and Twofish use longer, fixed key sizes and are not associated with 40-bit export limitations.

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