New Cryptographic Algorithms in Visual Studio Orcas

Seems that sooner or later I'll have to switch to Windows Vista...

I've just discovered the new CNG API (Cryptography API: Next Generation)... and apart from new features, I've digged a bit into the new cryptographic algorithms it brings.

Visual Studio Orcas will bring 12 new classes,9 being variations of existing algorithms, and three new ones.

• AES: This one is "half-new". Rijndael already existed in the CAPI, but the AES (same Wiki link) base class includes constraints to ensure a fully AES compatibility (for example, doesn't allow to change block size).
• Elliptic Curve DSA (ECDSA): ECDSA is an implementation of the Digital Signature Standard using elliptic curves, used for signing and verifying signatures.
• Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (EC Diffie-Hellman): EC Diffie-Hellman is an implementation of Diffie-Hellman using elliptic curves, used for exchanging private keys.