An RSA number refers to a specific type of integer that is utilized within the RSA encryption algorithm, one of the most widely used methods of modern cryptography. In this context, an RSA number is a positive integer, typically denoted as 'n', that is composed of two distinct prime numbers, 'p' and 'q', with the formula n = p * q.
The RSA algorithm relies on the fact that it is computationally challenging to factorize a large composite number into its prime factors. The security of RSA encryption lies in the difficulty of finding 'p' and 'q' from their product, 'n', known as the modulus. As a result, RSA numbers are chosen to be large enough to make the factorization a time-consuming task for potential attackers.
The RSA number 'n' serves as the foundation for generating the public and private keys within the RSA encryption system. The public key consists of the modulus 'n' and another value, typically denoted as 'e', which is chosen to be a coprime of (p-1)(q-1). The private key, on the other hand, comprises 'n' and a different value, often represented as 'd', which satisfies the relation 'e * d = 1 mod (p-1)(q-1)'.
In summary, an RSA number is an integer produced by the multiplication of two distinct prime numbers and forms the basis of the RSA encryption algorithm, leading to secure communication and data protection.
