4 ms·

Might as well take an Introduction to Semiconductor Devices engineering course while you're at it. Just as relevant when it comes to software development.

• tptacek 4y ago
  Abstract algebra is more relevant to the general practice of cryptography engineering than semiconductor engineering is to the general practice of writing software.
  • Salgat 4y ago
    I'm talking specifically about the requirements for your average software developer, not a developer trying to specifically study cryptography.
  • _a_a_a_ 4y ago
    I'm sure it is but it also has negligible application to quotidian grunt-programming which is regrettably what 99.9% of people on HN do. Learning a skill that seems never to get used seems completely pointless to me. That's a critique of industry, not of linear algebra by the way.
    • tptacek 4y ago
      I agree that abstract algebra has only marginal important to the general practice of programming. I only dispute that it's marginal for cryptography engineering.
      • _a_a_a_ 4y ago
        I don't believe anyone said that it was marginal for crypto?