Transitioning the Use of Cryptographic Algorithms and Key Lengths

Published

March 21, 2019

Author(s)

Elaine B. Barker, Allen L. Roginsky

Abstract

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides cryptographic key management guidance for defining and implementing appropriate key management procedures, using algorithms that adequately protect sensitive information, and planning ahead for possible changes in the use of cryptography because of algorithm breaks or the availability of more powerful computing techniques. NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-57, Part 1, Recommendation for Key Management: General, includes a general approach for transitioning from one algorithm or key length to another. This Recommendation (SP 800-131A) provides more specific guidance for transitions to the use of stronger cryptographic keys and more robust algorithms.

Citation

Special Publication (NIST SP) - 800-131A Rev. 2

Report Number

800-131A Rev. 2

NIST Pub Series

Special Publication (NIST SP)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Supercedes Publication

Transitions: Recommendation for Transitioning the Use of Cryptographic Algorithms and Key Lengths

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-131Ar2

Keywords

cryptographic algorithm, digital signatures, encryption, hash function, key agreement, key derivation functions, key management, key transport, key wrapping, message authentication codes, post-quantum algorithms, random number generation, security strength, transition.

Citation

Barker, E. and Roginsky, A. (2019), Transitioning the Use of Cryptographic Algorithms and Key Lengths, Special Publication (NIST SP), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-131Ar2 (Accessed October 8, 2025)