Device used in cryptographic equipment to change the order in which the contents of a shift register are used in various nonlinear combining circuits. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
What is permuter?
The term Permuter refers to a device or cryptographic component that rearranges the order of bits, characters, register contents, or signal elements as part of a transformation. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is permuter used in cryptography or COMSEC?
In practice, Permuter is applied to the technical or security purpose captured by its definition: a device or cryptographic component that rearranges the order of bits, characters, register contents, or signal elements as part of a transformation. Organizations combine that function with documented procedures, authorized access, testing, monitoring, and controls appropriate to the system.
Why does permuter need security controls?
Understanding Permuter matters because the concept can affect security, reliability, auditability, or trusted operation. In this glossary context, it refers to a device or cryptographic component that rearranges the order of bits, characters, register contents, or signal elements as part of a transformation.
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Device used in cryptographic equipment to change the order in which the contents of a shift register are used in various nonlinear combining circuits. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Permuter. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/permuter
Sources
01
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.