Which organization published the Data Encryption Standard (DES)?

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is indeed the organization that published the Data Encryption Standard (DES). DES was adopted in 1977 as a federal standard for encrypting non-classified information, establishing a significant framework for data security during its time. NIST's role in this context is crucial as it sets standards for various technologies, including cryptography.

DES played a foundational role in the development of modern cryptographic standards, influencing many subsequent encryption algorithms. The publication and endorsement of DES by NIST underscored its commitment to promoting secure communication systems, which was essential as computer technology and electronic communication expanded in the late 20th century.

The other organizations mentioned are involved in different areas of standards and security, but they do not hold the specific responsibility for publishing DES. For instance, while the National Security Agency (NSA) contributed to the development of cryptographic techniques, it did not publish DES itself. The International Standards Organization (ISO) focuses on international standards but is not specifically responsible for DES. The Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) is a designation used for standards published by NIST but does not represent a separate entity; it refers to the standards themselves, such as FIPS PUB 46 which is