Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a security framework that manages digital certificates and encryption keys to enable secure communication and authentication over networks. It ensures data confidentiality, integrity, authentication, and non-repudiation, making it essential for secure online transactions.


How PKI Works

PKI uses asymmetric encryption, which relies on a pair of cryptographic keys:


Public Key – Used to encrypt data and verify digital signatures.

Private Key – Kept secret and used for decryption and creating digital signatures.

When a sender encrypts a message with the recipient’s public key, only the recipient’s private key can decrypt it, ensuring secure communication.


Key Components of PKI

Certificate Authority (CA) – A trusted organization that issues, verifies, and revokes digital certificates.

Registration Authority (RA) – Validates user identity before requesting a certificate from the CA.

Digital Certificates – Electronic credentials that link a public key to a specific entity (individuals, websites, or organizations).

Certificate Revocation List (CRL) – A list of invalid or revoked certificates that should no longer be trusted.

Key Management System (KMS) – Oversees the creation, storage, and distribution of encryption keys.

Benefits of PKI

- Enhanced Security – Provides encryption and digital signatures for data protection.

- Data Integrity – Prevents data manipulation by verifying digital signatures.

- Scalability – Supports secure transactions across large networks, such as HTTPS for websites.


Challenges of PKI

- Complex Setup & Maintenance – Requires careful management of certificates and encryption keys.

- Trust Dependence – Security relies on the trustworthiness of the Certificate Authority.

- Key Management Overhead – Ensuring secure storage and renewal of cryptographic keys is critical.


Common Use Cases of PKI

Secure Web Browsing (SSL/TLS) – Encrypts internet traffic for HTTPS websites.

Email Encryption (S/MIME) – Ensures secure email communication.

Digital Signatures – Used for verifying document authenticity in legal and business environments.

Network Security (VPNs & Wi-Fi) – Protects data transmission over secure networks.


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