Symmetric Key Cryptography

  • Also known as secret key cryptography.
  • A single key is used for both encryption and decryption.
  • Provides confidentiality only.
  • Usually faster for encryption and decryption.
  • Key management is relatively difficult.
  • If the secret key is exposed, anyone who gets it can decrypt the data.
  • Therefore, the secret key must be protected carefully by all users.

Asymmetric Key Cryptography

  • Also known as public key cryptography.
  • Two keys are used: one key for encryption and a different key for decryption.
  • Provides confidentiality and authenticity.
  • Encryption and decryption are usually slower.
  • Key management is more complex.
  • A message encrypted with one key can only be decrypted by its matching key pair.
  • If the private key is exposed, anyone with it may decrypt the protected data.
  • The private key owner must keep the private key extremely secure.