# Chiasmus

> Encryption software

**Wikidata**: [Q1071695](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1071695)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiasmus_(cipher))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/chiasmus-q1071695

## Summary
Chiasmus is encryption software developed and maintained by the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) in Germany. It is classified as a proprietary software tool designed to secure data on Linux and Microsoft Windows operating systems. The software utilizes specific key and encrypted file formats to manage data security.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Encryption software and executable software component.
- **Developer:** Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).
- **Country of Origin:** Germany.
- **Operating Systems:** Compatible with Microsoft Windows and Linux.
- **License:** Proprietary license (Copyrighted).
- **Maintenance:** Maintained by the Federal Office for Information Security.
- **File Formats:** Capable of reading and writing "Chiasmus key" and "Chiasmus encrypted" file formats.
- **Language:** German (language of work/name).
- **Version History:** Includes versions 1.0.0, 1.1.0.4, 1.3.0.0, 1.5.1.0, 1.5.1.1, 1.5.1.2, 1.5.1.4, 1.5.1.5, 1.6.0.3, and 1.6.0.3b.
- **Official Website:** `https://www.bsi.bund.de/DE/Themen/Kryptografie_Kryptotechnologie/Kryptografie/Chiasmus/Chiasmus.html`

## FAQs
### Q: Who develops and maintains Chiasmus?
A: Chiasmus is both developed and maintained by the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) in Germany.

### Q: Is Chiasmus open-source software?
A: No, Chiasmus is distributed under a proprietary license and its copyright status is listed as copyrighted.

### Q: What operating systems are compatible with Chiasmus?
A: Chiasmus runs on Microsoft Windows and Linux operating systems.

### Q: What specific file formats does Chiasmus use?
A: The software reads and writes specific formats identified as "Chiasmus key" and "Chiasmus encrypted."

## Why It Matters
Chiasmus holds significance as a state-developed cryptographic tool originating from Germany’s primary authority for information security, the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). Unlike many commercial encryption tools, Chiasmus is maintained directly by a government agency, suggesting it is tailored to meet specific bureaucratic or security standards required by German federal operations. Its availability on both Microsoft Windows and Linux ensures versatility across different administrative IT infrastructures.

The software serves a critical function in the realm of data protection by providing a mechanism for secure file storage and transfer through its proprietary encryption methods. The existence of multiple versions—ranging from 1.0.0 to iterations like 1.6.0.3b—demonstrates a history of ongoing development and patching, reflecting the agency's response to evolving security needs. As a proprietary solution, it offers a distinct alternative to open-source encryption tools, specifically for users integrated into German regulatory frameworks.

## Notable For
-   **Government Development:** Distinguished by being a product of the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).
-   **Cross-Platform Support:** Designed to function on both Microsoft Windows and Linux systems.
-   **Proprietary Nature:** Unlike many modern encryption tools that are open-source, Chiasmus is proprietary and copyrighted.
-   **Specific Format Usage:** Utilizes unique, named file formats specifically for keys and encrypted data.

## Body

### Development and Administration
Chiasmus is a software application developed in Germany. The entity responsible for its creation and ongoing maintenance is the Federal Office for Information Security (Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik or BSI). The software has been referenced in academic and knowledge sources as a distinct encryption tool available in the German language.

### Technical Specifications and Compatibility
Chiasmus is defined as a non-tangible executable component of a computer system. It is designed to operate on two distinct platforms:
*   **Microsoft Windows:** The family of computer operating systems developed by Microsoft.
*   **Linux:** A family of Unix-like operating systems.

The software interfaces with specific data types, technically classified as readable and writable file formats. These formats are identified specifically as "Chiasmus key" and "Chiasmus encrypted."

### Version History
The software has undergone multiple iterations since its inception. Recorded versions include:
*   1.0.0
*   1.1.0.4
*   1.3.0.0
*   1.5.1.0
*   1.5.1.1
*   1.5.1.2
*   1.5.1.4
*   1.5.1.5
*   1.6.0.3
*   1.6.0.3b

### Licensing and Availability
Chiasmus is distributed under a proprietary license. The software is considered copyrighted, distinguishing it from public domain or open-source encryption alternatives. The official online presence is hosted on the BSI website, specifically within sections dedicated to cryptography and encryption technology.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.bsi.bund.de/DE/Themen/Kryptografie_Kryptotechnologie/Kryptografie/Chiasmus/Chiasmus.html)