LightDSA: A Python-Based Hybrid Digital Signature Library and Performance Analysis of RSA, DSA, ECDSA and EdDSA in Variable Configurations, Elliptic Curve Forms and Curves

Abstract

Digital signature algorithms (DSAs) are fundamental to cryptographic security, ensuring data integrity and authentication. While RSA, DSA, ECDSA, and EdDSA are widely used, their performance varies significantly depending on key sizes, hash functions, and elliptic curve configurations. In this paper, we introduce LightDSA, a hybrid and configurable digital signature library that supports RSA, DSA, ECDSA, and EdDSA with flexible form and curve selection, open sourced at https://github.com/serengil/LightDSA. Unlike conventional implementations that impose strict curve-form mappings - such as Weierstrass for ECDSA and Edwards for EdDSA LightDSA - allows arbitrary combinations, enabling a broader performance evaluation. We analyze the computational efficiency of these algorithms across various configurations, comparing key generation, signing, and verification times. Our results provide insights into the trade-offs between security and efficiency, guiding the selection of optimal configurations for different cryptographic needs.