Definition ∞ In cryptography, a plain model refers to a theoretical framework where cryptographic protocols are analyzed without relying on idealizations like random oracles or generic group models. This approach assesses security directly based on standard cryptographic assumptions, providing a more rigorous and conservative security guarantee. It represents a fundamental method for evaluating the robustness of cryptographic constructions. Security proofs in the plain model are generally considered stronger and more resilient.
Context ∞ The discussion around the plain model often emphasizes its importance for foundational cryptographic research and for building highly secure systems. A key debate involves the practical trade-offs between the stronger security guarantees of plain model proofs and the efficiency gains offered by ideal models for certain applications. Future developments will focus on constructing more efficient cryptographic primitives that can be proven secure directly within the plain model, reducing reliance on heuristic assumptions.