K Key A value that is used with a cryptographic algorithm to encrypt, decrypt or sign data. Secret Key Cryptosystems use only one secret key. Public Key Cryptosystems used a public key to encrypt data and a private key to decrypt it. The number of bits forming a key. The longer the key, the more secure the encryption.
Government regulations limit the length of cryptographic keys in a number of countries.
Key Management Generation, transmission and storage of keys in a Cryptosystem. The software routines contained in a smart card, including OS and application software. Micromodule The electronic unit on a smart card. The mircomodule is formed of a chip and a contact plate, connected by fine wires and encapsulated in a drop of epoxy resin. The mircomodule is inserted into a cavity in the card body to form a finished card.