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Aviral Srivastava
Aviral Srivastava

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PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) Fundamentals

PKI Fundamentals: Securing Digital Communication

Introduction:

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a system for creating, managing, distributing, using, storing, and revoking digital certificates and managing public-private key pairs. It provides a framework for secure online communication and transactions. At its core, PKI relies on asymmetric cryptography, using a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption.

Prerequisites:

Implementing PKI requires several components:

  • Certificate Authority (CA): A trusted entity that issues and manages digital certificates.
  • Registration Authority (RA): An optional intermediary that verifies user identities before certificates are issued.
  • Certificate Repository: A database storing issued certificates.
  • Public Key Cryptography: Algorithms like RSA and ECC underpin the system's security.

Advantages:

  • Authentication: Verifies the identity of users and devices.
  • Confidentiality: Ensures data is only accessible to authorized recipients through encryption.
  • Integrity: Guarantees data hasn't been tampered with.
  • Non-repudiation: Prevents users from denying their actions.

Disadvantages:

  • Complexity: Setting up and maintaining a PKI system is complex and resource-intensive.
  • Cost: Implementing and managing a PKI can be expensive.
  • Single Point of Failure: The CA is a critical component; its compromise jeopardizes the entire system.
  • Certificate Management: Revocation and renewal processes need careful management.

Features:

PKI's key features include:

  • Digital Certificates: Contain public keys along with identity information. Example (simplified): 
<certificate>
  <subject>John Doe</subject>
  <publicKey>...public key data...</publicKey>
</certificate>
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  • Key Management: Secure generation, storage, and revocation of keys.
  • Trust Models: Defines how trust is established between entities (e.g., hierarchical, web of trust).

Conclusion:

PKI is crucial for securing digital interactions. While complex to implement, its benefits in authentication, confidentiality, and integrity outweigh the challenges for many organizations. Careful planning, robust security measures, and ongoing maintenance are essential for successful PKI deployment.

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