page_title: KSD-64
hierarchical_section_title: KSD-64
caption_attribution_description: KSD-64 Crypto Key
context_page_description: The KSD-64[A] Crypto Ignition Key is an NSA-developed EEPROM chip packed in a plastic case that looks like a toy key. The model number is due to its storage capacity — 64 kibibits, enough to store multiple encryption keys. Most frequently it was used in key-splitting applications: either the encryption device or the KSD-64 alone is worthless, but together they can be used to make encrypted connections. It was also used alone as a fill device for transfer of key material, as for the initial seed key loading of an STU-III secure phone.
  Newer systems, such as the Secure Terminal Equipment, use the Fortezza PC card as a security token instead of the KSD-64. The KSD-64 was withdrawn from the market in 2014. Over one million were produced in its 30-year life.
context_section_description: The KSD-64[A] Crypto Ignition Key (CIK) is an NSA-developed EEPROM chip packed in a plastic case that looks like a toy key.  The model number is due to its storage capacity — 64 kibibits (65,536 bits, or 8 KiB), enough to store multiple encryption keys.  Most frequently it was used in key-splitting applications: either the encryption device or the KSD-64 alone is worthless, but together they can be used to make encrypted connections.  It was also used alone as a fill device for transfer of key material, as for the initial seed key loading of an STU-III secure phone.
  Newer systems, such as the Secure Terminal Equipment, use the Fortezza PC card as a security token instead of the KSD-64. The KSD-64 was withdrawn from the market in 2014. Over one million were produced in its 30-year life.
caption: KSD-64 "Crypto-ignition keys" on display at the National Cryptologic Museum in 2005
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