A5 Cipher

[cryptlist@ubik.demon.co.uk]

jya@pipeline.com wrote:
> The 3GPP algorithms are accessible here:
> 
>   http://portal.etsi.org/dvbandca/3GPP/3gppspecs.asp
> 
> However, sorry to be dense, but what is new in A5/3?

AIUI It is just the adoption of the 3GPP encryption for use
on GSM handsets & networks.

> Key length to 128 bits and more openness of the cipher
> for public testing?
>
> The 3GPP specs available appear to be those around for
> a while. Or have they been modified, and in what way?

Not changed that I know of.

> On a related, one of the ETSI documents lists hooks for
> A5/1 through A5/7. Is this series in the offing?

Just an ETSI attempt to be open ended.  I think it just reflects 
a 3 bit field where a base station tells the handset what encryption 
algorithm to use.


ttfn,
Tony