Remember HMAC
Full name: Hash-Based Message Authentication Code
Memory aid: Hash plus a secret Makes an Authentication Code.
Both parties holding the same secret can create valid tags.
Study area: Cryptography & trust · Batch 3
Relevant study for: CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 · ISC2 CISSP 2024 outline · ISC2 SSCP · CompTIA SecurityX · Cybersecurity Architect SC-100 · ISC2 CCSP · Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals SC-900
Practice with exam flashcards →Cybersecurity & Identity / Knowledge library
HMAC — Hash-Based Message Authentication Code
Authenticates messages using a secret key and a hash construction.
Why learn HMAC — Hash-Based Message Authentication Code?
Authenticates messages using a secret key and a hash construction.
Where it came from
Both parties holding the same secret can create valid tags.
- Memory aid (a learning cue, not the expansion): Hash plus a secret Makes an Authentication Code.
Build your understanding
Work through these exercises in order. Try the task before opening a reference.
- Without looking, expand HMAC: Hash-Based Message Authentication Code.
- Recall this memory aid: Hash plus a secret Makes an Authentication Code.
- Explain the practical use: Authenticates messages using a secret key and a hash construction.
- Explain this distinction: Both parties holding the same secret can create valid tags.
- Identify HMAC in a device specification, architecture diagram, or system inventory.
Documentation and sources
- IETF RFC 2104 (www.rfc-editor.org)