Although we don't always realize it, most of us experience how cryptography, communications, and computer science intersect as we go about our daily activities. For instance, while on our laptops, we conduct secure financial transactions and communicate about business and personal matters. But not long ago, only people with special security clearances working at secured communications centers had access to cryptologic secrets. This book looks at how such a dramatic transition came about. J. V. Boone presents a historical overview of technological developments in cryptology and the closely associated fields of communications and computers. As a former deputy director for research and engineering at the National Security Agency (NSA), he is well suited to tell the story.

Boone identifies milestone accomplishments and activities in the three fields to provide an introduction to the talented people who have led developments and applications. Illustrations are included to give a feel for pieces of equipment and systems, but the book's focus is on brainpower, an ingredient essential for success in cryptology. Although the author writes primarily from a military intelligence and command/control viewpoint, he avoids involved explanations about individual pieces of equipment and elaborate mathematical presentations to make his book accessible to general readers-everyone from high school students to policy developers in government and industry. For those whose curiosity has been stimulated, Boone suggests additional reading. A glossary defines terms that might not be familiar to all readers.