Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a system that includes both Public Key and Private Key. It is used to encrypt data and authenticate the identity of entities. So, how can you obtain a PKI certificate? Follow Tonraffles’ article below to learn more in detail!
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What is Public Key Infrastructure ?
Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a framework that supports users and servers in interacting easily through a digital certificate. Typically, entities such as Web Clients, browsers, Company Servers, or other VMs communicate with each other over the Internet.
The term “infrastructure” is used to describe PKI because it does not target a specific entity but refers to its main components. These components include hardware, software, policies, procedures, and more, which are used to securely encrypt data and authenticate digital certificates.
Technically, PKI is a cryptographic system comprising a Public Key and a Private Key. These two keys are widely used in the IT field to support security, encryption, enhance reliability, and manage data safely.
A digital key is similar to traditional keys used to lock and unlock digital documents. Additionally, it has other notable features, such as the ability to describe encryption methods that protect data from dangerous attacks. It also allows users to share keys with each other in the most secure manner.
How PKI Works
PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) helps encrypt messages sent over the Internet from device A to device B. Device A needs the Public Key of device B to encrypt the information before sending the message. The Private Key is then used to decrypt the information for the intended recipient.
Features of the Public Key:
- Supports secure data encryption.
- Allows flexible use and distribution by anyone.
- Uses the Private Key for decryption.
- Does not provide privacy features.
Features of the Private Key:
- Supports secure data decryption.
- Not practical for distribution and sharing.
- Uses the Public Key for encryption.
- Provides high privacy.
Example of How Public Key and Private Key Cryptography Works:
User A will use the Public Key provided by user B to encrypt the message, data, or digital document to be sent. User B will then use the Private Key to decrypt and access the information.
In more complex systems, user identity verification is required. This ensures that the Public Key is sent to the correct recipient. Skipping these necessary protective steps can allow attackers to exploit vulnerabilities to impersonate users and participate in sensitive data exchanges.
Elements of PKI
Trusted Certificate Authority (CA)
A reliable entity that provides PKI certificates and trustworthy services can offer effective methods for authenticating the identities of users and devices. One such organization is a CA (Certificate Authority), the most reputable issuer of PKI certificates today.
Registration Authority (RA)
A subordinate CA supported by the main CA is authorized to issue certificates for specific purposes allowed by the Root CA.
Certificate Repository
The certificate repository is typically a computer’s memory, supporting only a few running programs to access stored certificates and Certificate Revocation Lists (CRL) or Certificate Trust Lists (CTL).
Certificate Database
The certificate database stores information related to issued certificates, including their validity and operational status. To revoke a certificate, users can update the database based on the digital signature and encryption using the owner’s Public Key.
What is a PKI Certificate?
A PKI certificate is a data package that includes digital files, documents, and data used to authenticate the identity of designated entities. Specifically, if user A wants to send a message or document to user B, A needs to have their identity verified on the PKI certificate.
How to Obtain a PKI Certificate
To obtain a PKI certificate, users can register with trusted CAs like Sectigo and DigiCert. These organizations can issue, distribute, and revoke PKI certificates for specific entities based on predefined rules. Some individual companies might use their own CA to enhance security and supporting infrastructure.
Since PKI certificates do not contain personal information, they can be individually authenticated. This allows users to distribute PKI certificates similarly to Public Keys. Consequently, most client software trusts and does not require additional authentication for PKI certificates.
