Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

Definition

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a framework that uses a combination of hardware, software, policies, and procedures to manage digital certificates and public-key encryption. It ensures secure communications over networks by enabling the authentication, confidentiality, and integrity of data through the use of public and private key pairs. PKI is essential for establishing trust in online transactions and communications, making it a cornerstone of network security.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. PKI relies on asymmetric cryptography, where each participant has a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption.
2. The Certificate Authority (CA) plays a critical role in PKI by issuing and managing digital certificates, verifying identities, and maintaining the security of the public key infrastructure.
3. Revocation lists are maintained to ensure that compromised or expired certificates can be invalidated, enhancing overall security.
4. PKI supports various applications such as secure email communication, SSL/TLS for secure web browsing, and electronic signatures.
5. The establishment of trust in PKI is crucial; users must trust the CA that issued their certificates to ensure secure communications.

Review Questions

• How does PKI enhance security in online transactions and communications?
  • PKI enhances security in online transactions by providing a reliable means of authentication and encryption. By using public and private key pairs, PKI ensures that only authorized parties can access or alter information. The use of digital certificates issued by trusted Certificate Authorities adds another layer of verification, making sure that the entities involved in the transaction are who they claim to be.
• Discuss the roles of digital certificates and Certificate Authorities within a PKI framework.
  • Digital certificates serve as proof of ownership for public keys, linking them to individuals or organizations while ensuring their authenticity. Certificate Authorities (CAs) play a vital role in issuing these certificates, validating identities, and maintaining trust within the PKI system. Together, they help establish a secure environment where data can be transmitted safely over networks.
• Evaluate the importance of revocation lists in maintaining the integrity of a Public Key Infrastructure.
  • Revocation lists are essential in maintaining the integrity of a Public Key Infrastructure because they ensure that any compromised or outdated digital certificates are promptly invalidated. This process prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive data from being intercepted or misused. By regularly updating these lists, CAs help sustain user trust in the PKI system and enable continued secure communications.

Related terms

Digital Certificate: An electronic document used to prove the ownership of a public key, linking it to an individual or organization.

Certificate Authority (CA): A trusted entity that issues digital certificates and verifies the identity of the certificate requesters.

Encryption: The process of converting information into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring data confidentiality.