book contents dont keep up to the overstated title

I have some basic idea on cryptography and security. Based on the title, I was excited to read some book that is from RSA press (RSA is one of the leading cryptography related companies). However, the book sounds more like a marketing pitch and some ideas are just thrown at you. The first two chapters are good for a person new to security. The drawbacks of password based security are described in a concise manner. I was expecting some brief overview (understandable to a common man) on some cryptography concepts. However, after reading the book the only take home idea is "use cryptography", with no more insight or information. I was expecting more, at least from RSA Press. The author just says that we need cryptography and there are companies and certification agencies.
The title "official guide to cryptography" is very misleading.

There are a lot of good books to tell us the need for cryptography (e.g. Secure Coding by microsoft) and I would not recommend this book.

Other Reviews

• book contents dont keep up to the overstated title
• A very good combination.
• Burnett/Paine hit the "nail on the head" with this book
• Half and Half
• A great introduction to cryptography