Real Security!

I'm delighted to announce that the crypto stuff is done! We can generate 512 bit RSA-style keys in about 5 minutes (PII 450, MSIE5.0). Encryption in under 2 seconds. Decyption in about 22 seconds.

Of course if you want faster performance you can (a) buy a faster computer (you wanted an excuse anyway, right), or (b) use less secure keys (any multiple of 8 works fine).

I've also tightened up the security on generating session keys. I think it was good before, but now it should be great.

I'm also using base 94 encoding in place of base 64.

The crypto code is based on Maurer Provable Prime numbers and Barrett's modular reduction. Thanks to Leemon for directing me to the Handbood of Applied Cryptography, and for spurring me on to excell.

(I didn't actually think that we'd get to 512 bits with a usable speed!)

The shopping cart is also updated to use the updated encryption system.

What's left?

Now I need some beta testers to help me improve usability, and I need to write some installation instructions. I also need to work on some back-ends.

The good news is that it is usable, is safe, and is complete!

Enjoy!
John