What algorithm is used to encrypt a private key?

Question

In my understanding, private keys are encrypted with some symmetric algorithm, so you can't access them without passphrase. What is it called?

This isn't specified in the standard. @CBobRobison is correct, Geth in particular uses AES to encrypt its private key, but this can varry from client to client. Most do use AES, because it's so ubiquitous — Tjaden Hess, Nov 9 '16 at 19:49
That can be looked up in the JSON file that stores the encrypted private key. It is typically the value of the "cipher" element. For example, in a Parity key file: "cipher": "aes-128-ctr" means 128-bit AES in Counter mode. — Ajoy Bhatia, May 30 '17 at 23:41

CBobRobison · Accepted Answer · 2016-11-09 18:08:46Z

7

The key is encrypted with 128-bit AES in Counter (CTR) mode.

answered Nov 9 '16 at 17:57

CBobRobison

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gentlejack · Accepted Answer · 2016-11-09 19:45:38Z

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Private keys encryption is normally done using Sha algorithm.

answered Nov 9 '16 at 19:45

gentlejack

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SHA is not an encryption algorithm, it's a family of hash functions.
– Tjaden Hess
Nov 9 '16 at 19:47

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