How the original Turing machine broke the enigma

In summary, the original Turing machine broke the enigma by trying millions of different combinations much faster than the original human group could, eventually cracking it before it was changed again. Each day, the machine would start with a weather prediction that contained a known phrase, making it easier for Turing's team to map the encryption scheme for that day.
  • #1
Mgkov18
20
1
I just saw The Imitation Game and was wondering how the original Turing machine broke the enigma. Could someone explain it to me?
 
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  • #2
Have a look at


to understand the Enigma machine, and then


to understand the work of Alan Turing and colleagues.
 
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Likes Tosh5457
  • #3
To put it very simply: It tried millions of different combinations for the enigma much much faster than the original human group could, therefore eventually cracking it before it was changed again at Nazi High Command. As soon as it was broken the code was sent to the War Office in London to be used. It changed daily so the machine was constantly at work. :)
 
  • #4
In the movie it was mentioned that each day started with a weather prediction that contained a phrase that was used each day. This made it easier for Turing's team to map the particular encryption scheme for that day to a known phrase, making their work a lot easier.
 

1. How did the original Turing machine break the Enigma code?

The original Turing machine, also known as the Bombe machine, used mathematical algorithms to decipher the Enigma code. It simulated the process of encryption and decryption used by the Enigma machine, allowing codebreakers to test different settings and determine the correct settings used by the German forces.

2. What was the purpose of the Turing machine in breaking the Enigma code?

The purpose of the Turing machine was to speed up the process of decrypting Enigma messages. It allowed codebreakers to test multiple settings simultaneously, reducing the time and effort required to decipher the code.

3. How did the Turing machine differ from previous attempts to break the Enigma code?

The Turing machine was more efficient and effective than previous methods used to break the Enigma code. It was able to test multiple settings at once and could adapt to changes in the code, making it a more versatile and powerful tool for codebreaking.

4. What impact did the successful breaking of the Enigma code have on World War II?

The breaking of the Enigma code had a significant impact on World War II. It allowed the Allies to intercept and decipher German communications, giving them valuable insights into their military strategies. This ultimately helped the Allies to win key battles and ultimately the war.

5. What was Alan Turing's role in the development of the original Turing machine?

Alan Turing was a key figure in the development of the original Turing machine. He was a British mathematician and cryptanalyst who played a crucial role in designing and refining the machine. His contributions to breaking the Enigma code are widely recognized as instrumental in the Allies' victory in World War II.

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