Fortunately, there is software that can handle these functions for you. Some of the least expensive software has proven to be the most effective. This article will discuss the practical side of encrypting and authenticating messages. We will not attempt to explain the mathematical concepts underlying encryption theory since that discussion has been known to put even experienced and dedicated actuaries to sleep. Keys One term that is important to understand when discussing message security is keys.
Keys are the computer programs that encode and decode messages.
One method of securing messages is called the secret key system. Two or more parties each have a copy of the same program or secret key. This program encodes and decodes messages between these parties. Each party that exchanges messages in this group is given a copy of the secret key program. The private key must be distributed through a secure method because if the private key is intercepted, the security of all messages within the group are compromised.