Fortran and RSA: September 20th
8 hours ago
- #mathematics
- #programming-history
- #cryptography
- Fortran was first successfully executed on September 20, 1954, proving high-level abstractions could match assembly code performance.
- The IBM 704, with its 36-bit words and magnetic core memory, was a powerful machine for its time but required deep knowledge to program.
- Early FORTRAN introduced optimization techniques like register allocation and loop optimization, achieving 25-30% performance improvements.
- RSA algorithm was patented on September 20, 1983, solving secure communication between strangers using mathematical asymmetry.
- RSA relies on the difficulty of factoring large primes, with security analysis showing exponential time complexity for classical algorithms.
- Both FORTRAN and RSA faced initial skepticism but succeeded due to their mathematical foundations and optimization strategies.
- FORTRAN remains vital in high-performance computing, while RSA underpins internet security, demonstrating the lasting impact of these technologies.