DES-X

DES-X is an improvement on the original Data Encryption Standard (DES), a method used to secure digital information. It strengthens DES by adding a secret "key whitening" step before and after the main encryption process, involving additional secret key material. This extra layer makes it much harder for attackers to crack the encryption, effectively increasing its security. DES-X provides a more robust defense against cryptanalysis while still maintaining the efficiency of DES, making it a practical choice for applications needing better protection without completely replacing established systems.