# Module openssl::ec [−] [src]

Elliptic Curve

Cryptology relies on the difficulty of solving mathematical problems, such as the factor of large integers composed of two large prime numbers and the discrete logarithm of a random eliptic curve. This module provides low-level features of the latter. Elliptic Curve protocols can provide the same security with smaller keys.

There are 2 forms of elliptic curves, `Fp` and `F2^m`. These curves use irreducible trinomial or pentanomial . Being a generic interface to a wide range of algorithms, the cuves are generally referenced by `EcGroup`. There are many built in groups found in `Nid`.

OpenSSL Wiki explains the fields and curves in detail at Eliptic Curve Cryptography.

## Structs

Asn1Flag | Named Curve or Explicit
EcGroup | Describes the curve
EcGroupRef | Reference to `EcGroup`
EcKey | Public and optional Private key on the given curve
EcKeyRef | Reference to `EcKey`
EcPoint | Represents a point on the curve
EcPointRef | Reference to `EcPoint`
PointConversionForm | Compressed or Uncompressed conversion