Probabilistic Proof Systems: A Primer

Various types of probabilistic proof systems have played a central role in the development of computer science in the last couple of decades. These proof systems deviate from the traditional concept of a proof by introducing randomization and interaction into the verification process. Probabilistic proof systems carry an error probability (which is explicitly bounded and can be decreased by repetitions), but they offer various advantages over deterministic proof systems. This primer concentrates on three types of probabilistic proof systems: interactive proofs, zero-knowledge proofs, and probabilistically checkable proofs (PCP). Surveying the basic results regarding these proof systems, the primer stresses the essential role of randomness in each of them.

Author: Oded Goldreich

Publisher: Now Publishers

Publication Date: Aug 04, 2008

Number of Pages: 108 pages

Binding: Paperback or Softback

ISBN-10: 160198152X

ISBN-13: 9781601981523