Interactive educational tool for teaching a simple cipher

In this paper, a practical educational tool based on Java programming is described. The approach is based on using a fully interactive graphical user interface for teaching cipher algorithms. As an example, a transposition cipher is covered, where students can try different keys and observe the effect of parameters such as key length, choice of letters for the key on the ciphertext. At the same time, the process of breaking the cipher algorithm (cryptanalysis) is rendered possible by students injecting known plaintext. The developed program offers an option where it tries systematically all keys (brute force) to break the cipher. Being extendable, the platform is thought to be able to play a very positive role in the assimilation of abstract concepts encountered during cryptography.