Hybrid Cipher Layering

First, we need to select the best tools for the job. We'll choose two main types of "digital locks" (cryptographic algorithms).

• One will be a tried-and-true, super-efficient lock that's excellent for everyday data protection (like a high-quality bank vault door – this is our "symmetric algorithm").
• The other will be a cutting-edge, next-generation lock specifically designed to be unbreakable by future quantum computers (think of a futuristic energy shield – this is our "post-quantum algorithm").

We'll carefully research and document why we've chosen these specific locks to ensure they are the best fit.

We won't just use these locks side by side; we'll make them work together in clever ways.

• Parallel Protection: Imagine a treasure chest that requires two different keys from two distinct types of locks to be opened simultaneously. We'll set up a system where our data is protected by both our chosen locks simultaneously.
• Protecting the Key with a Key: Another approach is like having a robust, quick lock on the main door (our symmetric algorithm protecting the data), but the key to that door is itself kept in an even smaller, virtually impenetrable safe that only a special future-proof key can open (our post-quantum algorithm protecting the first key). This "layered" approach adds significant extra security.

Every lock needs a key. For our digital locks, these keys need to be incredibly strong and unique. Instead of relying solely on a simple password that someone might guess, we're designing a system to create these keys by blending together different types of information.

Think of it like a master locksmith who forges a key not just from one piece of metal but by combining a password you provide, maybe some unique characteristics of the device being used, or even other distinct pieces of information. This makes the final key much more robust.

Once we have these super-strong keys, we need an equally secure place to store them for this initial version (our Proof-of-Concept). We'll create a basic but secure "digital key safe."

We'll also map out how, in later stages of the project, we can upgrade this to utilize specialized, super-secure hardware (such as a Hardware Security Module or HSM) for ultimate key protection.

All this robust security is fantastic, but it also needs to be practical. We don't want a fortress that takes ages to open! A key part of this part is to ensure that locking (encrypting) and unlocking (decrypting) data with our new multi-layered system remains fast enough for everyday use, especially when handling typical amounts of information. We'll test this to make sure it meets our performance targets.