[Enigmail] Help - Best Algorithm and Different Encryptions Available

[Robert J. Hansen]

Barry Jefferson wrote:
> I have a question on viewing my signature properties i noticed that
> it was encrypted using ELG, i am just wondering what this algorithm
> stands for and what different algorithms are there that you can
> create a key with and generally what is the best,most secure and
> hardest encryption to crack?

ELG = Elgamal.  Named after its inventor, Dr. Taher el Gamal, who has
Americanized his birth name as Taher Elgamal.

With respect to the different encryption algorithms and which one is
"best" -- I don't mean to be elitist, but you'll need the equivalent of
a very strong undergraduate math degree just to understand the words
people use when discussing cryptographic strengths and weaknesses.

I guess the most comprehensible answer I can give to your question is
"all the algorithms in the OpenPGP suite are massively overdesigned for
their intended purposes."  Beyond that, there are no easy layman's answers.

You may be interested in the Crypto FAQ.

http://sixdemonbag.org/cryptofaq.xhtml