Analysis of Certain Aspects of Output Feedback Mode

The Output Feedback (OFB) mode of operation of the Data Encryption Standard (DES) is discussed, and compared to the other DES modes. The advantages of the Output Feedback mode’s insensitivity to transmission errors and the applicability to bulk encryption of multiple users’ transmissions are presented, along with the disadvantages of an increased sensitivity to bit slippage and a requirement for more complex synchronization procedures.