The Role of Mathematical Functions in Cryptography: A Case Study of Caesar Encryption
Session
Computer Science and Communication Engineering
Description
The role of mathematics in cryptography is fundamental, as it provides the theoretical foundation for securing digital information and ensuring confidentiality in communication. One of the earliest and simplest encryption techniques, Caesar encryption, demonstrates the direct application of mathematical functions in cryptographic processes. At its core, Caesar encryption operates as a shift function applied to the domain of alphabetic characters, where each letter is mapped to another by a fixed numerical offset. This functional mapping not only illustrates the concept of bijective functions but also highlights the importance of modular arithmetic in preserving the cyclical nature of alphabets. By modeling encryption and decryption as inverse functions, mathematics ensures that the original message can be retrieved with precision when the correct key is applied. Although Caesar encryption is relatively weak against modern cryptographic attacks, it serves as an educational model that bridges mathematical theory with practical applications. Its simplicity allows for a clear understanding of how mathematical structures such as functions, domains, and modular systems underpin more advanced encryption algorithms. Exploring Caesar encryption through the lens of mathematical functions provides valuable insight into the evolution of cryptography and emphasizes the enduring importance of mathematics in safeguarding digital communication.
Keywords:
Cryptography, Functions, Caesar Encryption, Modular Arithmetic, Security
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Kampus, Lipjan
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.78
Recommended Citation
Ahmeti, Endrit and Leka, Hizer, "The Role of Mathematical Functions in Cryptography: A Case Study of Caesar Encryption" (2025). UBT International Conference. 10.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/CS/10
The Role of Mathematical Functions in Cryptography: A Case Study of Caesar Encryption
UBT Kampus, Lipjan
The role of mathematics in cryptography is fundamental, as it provides the theoretical foundation for securing digital information and ensuring confidentiality in communication. One of the earliest and simplest encryption techniques, Caesar encryption, demonstrates the direct application of mathematical functions in cryptographic processes. At its core, Caesar encryption operates as a shift function applied to the domain of alphabetic characters, where each letter is mapped to another by a fixed numerical offset. This functional mapping not only illustrates the concept of bijective functions but also highlights the importance of modular arithmetic in preserving the cyclical nature of alphabets. By modeling encryption and decryption as inverse functions, mathematics ensures that the original message can be retrieved with precision when the correct key is applied. Although Caesar encryption is relatively weak against modern cryptographic attacks, it serves as an educational model that bridges mathematical theory with practical applications. Its simplicity allows for a clear understanding of how mathematical structures such as functions, domains, and modular systems underpin more advanced encryption algorithms. Exploring Caesar encryption through the lens of mathematical functions provides valuable insight into the evolution of cryptography and emphasizes the enduring importance of mathematics in safeguarding digital communication.