Public-Key Cryptography Definition
Public-Key Cryptography, also known as asymmetric cryptography, is a cryptographic system that uses pairs of keys: public keys which may be disseminated widely, and private keys which are known only to the owner. This accomplishes two functions: authentication, where the public key verifies a holder of the paired private key sent the message, and encryption, where only the paired private key holder can decrypt the message encrypted with the public key.
Public-Key Cryptography Key Points
- It is a cryptographic system that uses two keys — a public key known to everyone and a private key known only to the recipient of the message.
- Public-Key Cryptography is used in numerous applications and systems software that require secure transmission of data, including digital signatures and SSL/TLS for secure browsing on the internet.
- It provides a method for encrypting communications without having to share the secret encryption key.
- The security of Public-Key Cryptography relies on the computational difficulty of certain mathematical functions.
What is Public-Key Cryptography?
Public-Key Cryptography is a cryptographic technique that enables entities to securely communicate on an insecure public network, and reliably verify the identity of an entity via digital signatures. It is an essential element of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.
Why is Public-Key Cryptography important?
Public-Key Cryptography is important because it forms the foundation for the secure transmission of information across the internet. It allows for the encryption of data and the creation of digital signatures, which are used to verify the authenticity and integrity of data. In the context of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, Public-Key Cryptography is used to ensure the security and privacy of transactions.
When is Public-Key Cryptography used?
Public-Key Cryptography is used whenever secure data transmission is required. It is commonly used in secure email systems, secure remote login systems, digital signature schemes, and also in blockchain technology for creating and verifying digital transactions.
Where is Public-Key Cryptography used?
Public-Key Cryptography is used in a variety of applications, including secure email, secure web browsing, secure remote access, digital signatures, and in blockchain technology. It is a fundamental component of modern internet security and privacy.
Who uses Public-Key Cryptography?
Public-Key Cryptography is used by anyone who needs to securely transmit data over the internet. This includes individuals, businesses, governments, and organizations. It is also used by developers and engineers who build and maintain secure systems and applications.
How does Public-Key Cryptography work?
In Public-Key Cryptography, each user or the system has a pair of cryptographic keys—a public key and a private key. The public key is distributed widely while the private key is kept secret. Anyone can encrypt a message using the receiver’s public key, but that encrypted message can only be decrypted with the receiver’s private key. This ensures the confidentiality and integrity of the transmitted data.
