A comparative analysis of symmetric and asymmetric encryption models in modern networks

Abstract

This paper provides a comparative analysis of symmetric and asymmetric encryption models within the framework of modern network protocols. The study evaluates the architectural features and performance profiles of AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20-Poly1305, RSA, and ECDH alongside post-quantum primitives defined by FIPS 203–205 standards. It explores their practical integration into TLS 1.3, WireGuard, IPsec IKEv2, SSH, and the Signal Protocol. The authors substantiate the “hybrid transition” concept, advocating for the combination of classical (X25519) and post-quantum (ML-KEM-768) key exchange mechanisms as a baseline architectural standard for the transitional period. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that coupling Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS) with post-quantum KEX mechanisms yields a resilient defense against “harvest now, decrypt later” attack vectors.