The centre aims to be a leading hub for cryptography and cybersecurity research in India. Its core areas of focus include:

• theoretical and applied cryptography
• symmetric key cryptography and cryptanalysis
• network security
• privacy-preserving mechanisms
• post-quantum cryptography
• quantum cryptography

In addition to conducting research in cutting-edge technologies, the centre also trains students and professionals in these fields. It offers long-term and short-term research opportunities at the postdoc, PhD, M.Tech RA, predoctoral, and intern levels, along with training programmes, workshops, and boot camps for experienced professionals as well as undergraduate and graduate students.