RC4 Stream Cipher: Investigating Permutations of the Initial Array

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the RC4 stream cipher, specifically regarding the permutations of the initial array (S) that ranges from 0 to 255. The key question raised is whether there exists a key that results in S remaining unchanged after the permutation process. It is noted that while a sequential key (1, 2, 3, ..., 255) may seem less random, it could still be considered random if the user is unaware of its use in advance. The inquiry highlights the complexities of key selection in cryptography and the implications for security.
chota
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hi,

I had a question regarding the rc4 stream cipher. I understand it is a bunch of permutations to the initial Array that goes from 0 to 255 with respect to the key.

However is there such a key such that after the permutation S is still the same? (ie still goes from 0 to 255)?

Any help would be appreciated, thanks
 
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I don't know if it is explicitly prohibited but it wouldn't necessarily matter - a key of 1,2,3,4,5...255 is just as random as any other if you don't know if advance that it's the one you are using.
 
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