Exam-style question
Try this first
Why can asymmetric encryption be useful when two parties need to exchange a symmetric key?.
- A.A public key can be used to protect the symmetric key while it is exchanged
- B.A symmetric key is always printed inside a digital certificate
- C.Asymmetric encryption removes the need for any private key
- D.A public key must be kept secret from everyone
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- A public key can be used to protect the symmetric key while it is exchanged
Explanation
Why this works
A public key can be shared openly, while the matching private key is kept secret. The public-key system can therefore be used to protect the exchange of a symmetric key, which can then be used for the communication.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.