PBKDF2
PBKDF2 (Password-Based Key Derivation Function 2) is a cryptographic algorithm used to derive a secure encryption key from a password or passphrase. It applies a pseudorandom function, such as HMAC, repeatedly to the input along with a salt to slow down brute-force attacks and increase computational cost. This process enhances security by making password cracking more time-consuming and resource-intensive.
Developers should learn and use PBKDF2 when implementing password storage or key derivation in applications that require secure handling of user credentials, such as authentication systems, encryption tools, or data protection mechanisms. It is particularly useful in scenarios where passwords need to be hashed with added resistance to dictionary and rainbow table attacks, as recommended by security standards like NIST for password-based key derivation.