Authentication: From Passwords to Public Keys examines the whole range of authentication options. Richard Smith demonstrates the strength of protection mechanisms in the only way that counts. He shows how they can be defeated, and at what expenditure of effort is needed. The book also deals with some aspects of encryption. It examines situations in which certain techniques fail and points out ways to strengthen them. The author thoroughly explains the technical concepts behind authentication, focusing on existing, off-the-shelf solutions to security problems.”]
Source: https://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0201615991/helpnetsecuri-21