Prerequisites for

Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms, and Source Code in C
Schneier, Bruce. 1995, 2nd edition. 784 pages.
Categories: Programming, Reference
Applied Cryptography is the must have tome for all would-be cryptographers. It's an encyclopedia (758 pages) of algorithms, techniques, politics, and source code. One could write code simply from the explanations of the algorithms, however it is fairly non-techy and good humored. While intended to be a reference book, it is enjoyable when read straight through. It is, of course, showing its age.


Recommended prerequisite books:
Both of these books:   
       
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Suggested mathematical background in:

N/A

Suggested computer language experience:

-  C