How does Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) work step by step?

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) operates using asymmetric cryptography and trusted certificate validation processes.

The process includes:

  • Key Pair Generation: A user or system creates a public and private key
  • Certificate Request: The public key is submitted to a Certificate Authority (CA)
  • Identity Verification: The CA validates identity credentials
  • Certificate Issuance: A digital certificate binds the public key to the verified identity
  • Secure Interaction: The certificate is used to encrypt data or verify digital signatures

This framework ensures secure communication, identity validation and compliance-ready digital transactions.