Customer Rating: 
Summary: Deserves all five stars!
Comment: As a layman to crypto, I found this book fascinating. It offers great insight to the technologies, and specifically analyzes several algorithms.This is widely considered the de facto text on the subject. I can see why - the text is comprehensive, and the format is very readable. It takes the reader from layman to technical - you can read this at any level and still get great value from it. Using this book, I've been able to solidify my understanding of the different technologies. Schneier's analysis of numerous algorithms has proven invaluable - both in selecting an algorithm, as well as assessing the security of commercial systems. I've had my copy for a couple of years, and it's been a constant reference. Well worth the money.
Customer Rating: 
Summary: Comprehensive, but lacking some math background.
Comment: Pros: Comprehensive: history, protocols, algorithms and much more. Readable also for the novice reader. Practical: many C examples.Cons: Not enough to understand math building blocks. Too long
Customer Rating:
Summary: Fun and informative
Comment: Crypto has intimidated me for years, mostly because its shrouded in secrecy and formulas.Schneier makes it fun and relevant. The section on protocols is like nothing I've ever seen before. This chapter could be a worthwhile book by itself. Schneier is humorous without being silly. He is never condescending, which is impressive, considering the incredible wealth of knowledge he presents here.
Customer Rating:
Summary: Highly Excellent, highly technical. Need Math Background.
Comment: A very good book that describes every possible aspect of cryptography from square one to Russian ciphers. Very clear and technical, a plus o me but a minnus to others. Be sure you are intrested in this topic and have a good mathematical/computer background before buying this book. If so, this is one of the greatest books you'll ever buy. It's in my top 10 in my library.
Customer Rating:
Summary: The undoubted champion of CS books today
Comment: Being a CS major, this book has presented to me the ultimate reference on the plethora of cryptographic techniques, protocols, and mathmatics. Albiet it can leave the mind unanswered questions, this book is well worth the price.
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