Kyber-768 Algorithm Deep Dive: ML-KEM Explained
Kyber-768, now standardized as ML-KEM-768 (Module-Lattice-Based Key Encapsulation Mechanism) under FIPS 203, is the key exchange algorithm used in the SynX quantum-resistant wallet.
What Is Kyber?
Kyber is a key encapsulation mechanism (KEM) that enables two parties to establish a shared secret over an insecure channel:
- Replaces Diffie-Hellman key exchange
- Based on lattice cryptography
- Resistant to quantum attacks
- Selected by NIST after extensive evaluation
How Kyber Works
Key Generation:
- Generate matrix A from public seed
- Create secret vectors s and e (small errors)
- Compute t = As + e (public key)
- Private key contains secret vector s
Encapsulation:
- Sender creates random message m
- Compute ciphertext using recipient's public key
- Shared secret derived from encapsulation
Decapsulation:
- Recipient uses private key to recover message
- Same shared secret computed
- Secure communication channel established
Security Parameters
| Variant | Security Level | Public Key | Ciphertext |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyber-512 | ~128-bit (AES-128) | 800 bytes | 768 bytes |
| Kyber-768 | ~192-bit (AES-192) | 1184 bytes | 1088 bytes |
| Kyber-1024 | ~256-bit (AES-256) | 1568 bytes | 1568 bytes |
The SynX quantum-resistant wallet uses Kyber-768 for balanced security and efficiency.
Lattice Problem Foundation
Kyber's security rests on Module-LWE (Learning With Errors):
- Given matrix A and t = As + e, finding s is hard
- Small error vector e provides security margin
- No known quantum algorithm solves LWE efficiently
- Decades of cryptographic research supports hardness
Why Kyber-768?
- NIST Level 3 security (recommended baseline)
- Matches AES-192 classical security
- Performance suitable for wallet operations
- Conservative choice for long-term security
Implementation in SynX
The SynX quantum-resistant wallet applies Kyber-768 for:
- Secure address derivation
- Private transaction data encryption
- Key exchange during network communication
Frequently Asked Questions
Could Kyber be broken by future research?
Possible but unlikely. NIST evaluation included extensive cryptanalysis. The SynX quantum-resistant wallet can upgrade if needed.
Why not use Kyber-1024 for maximum security?
Kyber-768 provides strong security with better performance. Higher levels available if threat model changes.
Experience Kyber-768 Protected Transactions
Explore SynX at https://synxcrypto.com