Block ciphers encrypt data in fixed-size blocks and can be categorized as stream or block ciphers. The document describes block cipher principles including the Feistel cipher structure, ideal block ciphers, and the practical block cipher Data Encryption Standard (DES). It provides details on the DES algorithm, key schedule, substitution boxes, diffusion and confusion properties, and modern cryptanalysis techniques such as differential and linear cryptanalysis. The DES standard utilizes a 56-bit key and has been superseded by algorithms with stronger 128-bit keys due to advances in computing power allowing brute force attacks on its 56-bit key.