Redvers Encryption Device - Frequently Asked Questions
Why have you written this product in COBOL?
We've taken the unusual step of writing and delivering this device in the form of COBOL source code subroutines because we understand how important it is to have a product that is easily integrated with existing applications.
Another advantage is that customers already running COBOL applications will already be familiar with the terminology, characteristics and capabilities of COBOL based programs.
What are the technical limitations?
As the product is written in COBOL and compiled using the standard site compiler, the limitations are the same as those placed on all other applications at the site.
Can I use another product to decrypt data encrypted by the Redvers Encryption Device?
Yes. The Redvers Encryption Device uses the standard AES algorithm to encrypt and decrypt data, therefore other products conforming to the FIPS PUB 197 and NIST Special Publication 800-38A specifications will be able to decrypt ciphertext generated by the Redvers Encryption Device.
In addition, the Redvers Encryption Device will also be able to decrypt ciphertext generated by other standard AES encryption products.
Is this device compatible with ASCII as well as EBCDIC based character sets?
Yes, all our products and devices run on ASCII and EBCDIC platforms. No code changes are necessary.
Is this device compatible with sites using "little-endian" binary storage?
Yes, all our products and devices will run on "big-endian" and "little-endian" platforms. No code changes are necessary.
What are the benchmark statistics?
Encryption rates are 125,000 bytes per second running ECB confidentiality mode with a 256 bit key. Decryption rates are 60,000 bytes per second running ECB mode with a 256 bit key. Decryption rates similar to encryption rates can be achieved if CFB, OFB or CTR confidentiality modes are used, as these modes use the forward cipher for encryption and decryption. All benchmark timings were performed on an IBM zSeries mainframe running z/OS 1.10.
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