ALSO CALLED: Data Encryption Algorithm, FIPS PUB 46-1, Triple Data Encryption Standard, DES, Triple DES, 3DES, FIPS PUB 46-2, Data Encryption Protocols, Symmetric Cryptography, DEA, FIPS PUB 44-2, Encryption Protocols, and Digital Encryption Standards
DEFINITION: Blowfish is an encryption algorithm that can be used as a replacement for the DES or IDEA algorithms. It is a symmetric (that is, a secret or private key) block cipher that uses a variable-length key, from 32 bits to 448 bits, making it useful for both domestic and exportable use. (The U. S. government forbids  … 
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DATA ENCRYPTION STANDARD DEFINITION (continued): … Blowfish is an encryption algorithm that can be used as a replacement for the DES or IDEA algorithms. It is a symmetric (that is, a secret or private key) block cipher that uses a variable-length key, from 32 bits to 448 bits, making it useful for both domestic and exportable use. (The U. S. government forbids the exportation of encryption software using keys larger than 40 bits except in special cases.) Blowfish was designed in 1993 by Bruce Schneier as an alternative to existing encryption algorithms. Designed with 32-bit instruction processors in mind, it is significantly faster than DES. Since its origin, it has been analyzed considerably. Blowfish is unpatented, license-free, and available free for all uses.
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