Introduction to Asymmetric Encryption Answers 1. What is the primary function of the public key in asymmetric encryption? A. To generate random keys for symmetric encryption B. To create digital certificates for key distribution C. To decrypt messages that have been encrypted with the private key D. To encrypt messages that can only be decrypted with the private key Answer: To encrypt messages that can only be decrypted with the private key (D) The public key is used to encrypt messages specifically for secure communication with the corresponding private key. 2. Which statement about the relationship between the public and private key is true? A. The public key is kept secret to ensure security. B. The public key can be easily derived from the private key. C. The private key is more complex and serves as both encryption and decryption. D. The private key is derived from the public key through a complex process. Answer: The private key is derived from the public key through a complex process. (D) The private key is mathematically linked to the public key but cannot be derived easily from it. 3. What is a major advantage of asymmetric encryption compared to symmetric encryption? A. It enhances key management by eliminating the need for securely sharing a secret key. B. It allows for faster encryption and decryption. C. It requires a single shared key between parties. D. It is less computationally intensive. Answer: It enhances key management by eliminating the need for securely sharing a secret key. (A) Asymmetric encryption avoids the need to share a secret key, enhancing overall key management. 4. What is a key concern in asymmetric encryption regarding public keys? A. Public keys cannot be used for encryption. B. Secure channels are essential to prevent their compromise during distribution. C. They can be distributed via insecure channels without risk. D. They must be kept secret to ensure security. Answer: Secure channels are essential to prevent their compromise during distribution. (B) Ensuring secure distribution of public keys is crucial to avoid potential breaches. 5. Which of the following best describes a digital signature in the context of asymmetric encryption? A. A way to ensure data integrity and verify the authenticity of information. B. A method for encrypting messages that only the sender can read. C. A public key used for deriving private keys securely. D. A certificate that confirms the identity of the encryption algorithm. Answer: A way to ensure data integrity and verify the authenticity of information. (A) Digital signatures offer a way to verify the authenticity of data and confirm its integrity. 6. What is a disadvantage of asymmetric encryption compared to symmetric encryption? A. It is less secure due to key distribution issues. B. It can only be used for digital signatures, not for encrypting data. C. It requires more complex algorithms for key generation. D. It is generally faster than symmetric encryption. Answer: It requires more complex algorithms for key generation. (C) Asymmetric encryption is computationally intensive and relies on complex algorithms for generating keys. 7. In the encryption process of asymmetric encryption, what does the sender use to transform the plain text message? A. The recipient's public key B. An encryption algorithm that requires no key C. Their own private key D. A symmetric key shared with the recipient Answer: The recipient's public key (A) The sender encrypts the message using the recipient's public key, allowing for secure communication. 8. What role do digital certificates play in asymmetric encryption? A. They enhance the complexity of the asymmetric system. B. They provide a trusted source for public keys. C. They encrypt messages to prevent unauthorized access. D. They are used to exchange private keys securely. Answer: They provide a trusted source for public keys. (B) Digital certificates are essential for establishing trust in the distribution of public keys.