Question $2(20$ marks$)$

a$.$ Explain the concept of collision resistance in the context of cryptographic hash functions. Why is it important? $(5$ marks$)$

$.$ What is the significance of the avalanche effect in cryptographic hash functions? How does it contribute to the security of the hashing process? $(5$ marks$)$

c$.$ How do collision resistance and second preimage resistance differ in the context of hash functions, and how are they important for digital signatures? $(5$ marks$)$

d$.$ What are the advantages of using elliptic curve cryptography $($ECC$)$ over traditional public$-$key cryptography algorithms like RSA? $(5$ marks$)$

Question $3(20$ marks$)$

a$.$ Describe the role of cryptographic protocols in securing web communication. Provide an example. $(4$ marks$)$

b$.$ How does Transport Layer Security $($TLS$)$ establish a secure connection and ensure data confidentiality and integrity during web browsing? $(6$ marks$)$

c$.$ In the context of cryptographic protocols, why is it important to use hash functions in key exchange mechanisms? Provide an example to illustrate their role $(5$ marks$)$

d$.$ Explain the application of hash functions in blockchain technology. How do hash functions contribute to the immutability of the blockchain? $(5$ marks$)$