Prerequisites for

Cryptography and Data Security
Denning, Dorthy. 1982 (Currently out of print). 400 pages.
Categories: Reference
Considered by many to be the classic text on cryptography (in other words, they used this book in college during the early 80's). Out of date in many respects, but still worth tracking down a copy if you can. In addition to the standard stuff, contains worthwhile readings on information/complexity/number theory, theory of access control, and means of protecting arbitrary security systems from statistical analysis attacks.


Recommended prerequisite books:
This book:   
       
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Suggested mathematical background in:

-  Linear Algebra

Suggested computer language experience:

N/A