Just for clarification, could you explain your math. How do you get from 256 states to to 1683 bits as 256 * 8 = 2048?
Also, when you say "only 96^8 or 2^52" how are these two equivalent as 96^8 = 7.21e15 and 2^52 = 4.5e15 or did you mean something different?
I'm only asking because I'm just starting to learn about cryptography..
As a side note, how long does it currently take to brute force your way through 4.5e15 keys using non-military strength computers. (assumes that hackers have only consumer to academic calibur machines.)?
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Filmo the Klown