Initialization Vector (IV)

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CYB-002160",
  "term": "Initialization Vector (IV)",
  "field": "Cybersecurity",
  "definition": "1. A bit string that is used as an initial value in computing the first iteration of the PRF in feedback mode. It may be an empty string.\n\n2. A binary string that is used as an initial value in computing the first iteration in feedback mode. It may be an empty string.\n\n3. A binary vector used as the input to initialize the algorithm for the encryption of a plaintext block sequence to increase security by introducing additional cryptographic variance and to synchronize cryptographic equipment. The initialization vector need not be secret. Some of the Triple Data Encryption Algorithm Modes of Operation require 3 initialization vectors.\n\n4. Initialization Vector\n\n5. A data block that some modes of operation require as an additional initial input.\n\n6. The initialization vector.\n\n7. A nonce that is associated with an invocation of authenticated encryption on a particular plaintext and AAD.\n\n8. A vector used in defining the starting point of a cryptographic process.\n\n9. A vector used in defining the starting point of an encryption process within a cryptographic algorithm.\n\n10. A vector used in defining the starting point of a cryptographic process (e.g., encryption and key wrapping).",
  "abbreviation": "IV",
  "references": [
    "NIST SP 800-108r1 [August 2022 (Includes updates as of 02-02-2024)]",
    "NIST SP 800-108 [Superseded]",
    "NIST SP 800-20",
    "NIST SP 800-20; NIST SP 800-38D",
    "NIST SP 800-38A",
    "NIST SP 800-38A; NIST SP 800-38D",
    "NIST SP 800-38D",
    "NIST SP 800-57 Part 1 Rev. 4 [Superseded]; NIST SP 800-57 Part 1 Rev. 5; NIST SP 800-175B Rev. 1; NIST SP 800-57 Part 1 Rev. 3 [Superseded]",
    "NIST SP 800-57 Part 2 [Superseded]",
    "NIST SP 800-57 Part 2 Rev.1",
    "NIST CSRC Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/cybersecurity/initialization-vector-iv/"
}