PKI

PKI is Sophisticated Security

Although frequently discussed in the Information Technology / Internet Security industries, the concept of Public Key Infrastructure is not usually understood well. Essentially most IT professionals, and computer savvy individuals conceivably, are familiar with PKI as it pertains to authentication security. They may also understand PKI to include public key pairs and encryption. Yet despite this familiarity, it seems that many people have only a vague understanding of the components of PKI, how they work together or, more importantly, the important role PKI plays with regard to network security and e-commerce.

Fundamentals of PKI and Digital Certificates

PKI is essentially an arrangement surrounding the issuance of digital certificates and assignment of public keys. The issuance of a digital certificate is ultimately done by a certification authority as the result of the PKI process, which includes the binding of public keys to subscribing user identities after such identities have been validated. The actual verification of user identities can be done by the certification authority itself, or by a separate registration authority. Once issued, however, the certification authority stamps and seals the PKI certificate with its unique digital signature. As a result the certificate holder is able to secure network communications and online transactions, as well as provide trusted third-party, PKI -based, authentication of its business identity.

Entrust Certificate Management Service lets Customers Control PKI

The PKI certificate system looks relatively simple on the surface, but the truth is that a lot goes on behind the infrastructure that makes PKI certificates so coveted. As part of the PKI process, issued certificates must also be managed, and this is an ongoing function. Fortunately, Entrust offers a unique, subscription-based service that takes the complexity out certificate management. Allowing centralized customer-based control of the certificate process, the Entrust Certificate Management Service is an efficient solution to managing the certificate process for your organization. By consolidating the key areas of PKI certificate usage, the Entrust Certificate Management Service allows the customer to control the acquisition, administration, and expiration of security certificates, as well as the overall management of enterprise certificates by virtue of its simple, efficient interface. Taking the challenge out of advanced level security efforts, the Entrust Certificate Management Service is a consolidated, cost-effective solution to PKI certificate management.