Playfair Cipher client-side
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How to use Playfair Cipher

The Playfair cipher encrypts letters two at a time (digraphs) using a 5×5 grid built from a keyword — letters I and J sharing a cell. For each pair, three rules apply based on the letters' positions in the grid: on the same row, take the letter to the right; on the same column, the one below; otherwise form a rectangle and swap columns. Enter a keyword and your text to encrypt or decrypt, and watch the generated grid. Educational tool, processed client-side.

Digraph cipher with a 5×5 key square.

PlayfairDigrammeCryptographieEncryption

How to use Playfair Cipher

The Playfair cipher encrypts letters two at a time (digraphs) using a 5×5 grid built from a keyword — letters I and J sharing a cell. For each pair, three rules apply based on the letters' positions in the grid: on the same row, take the letter to the right; on the same column, the one below; otherwise form a rectangle and swap columns. Enter a keyword and your text to encrypt or decrypt, and watch the generated grid. Educational tool, processed client-side.

Frequently asked questions

Why are I and J merged?

To fit the 26 letters into a 25-cell (5×5) grid. On decryption an I can therefore stand for I or J, to be read from context.

What happens with a pair of identical letters?

A filler letter (often X) is inserted between them, since Playfair cannot encrypt a pair of equal letters.