In this chapter we discuss fundamental issues and techniques for handling cryptographic keys. We also introduce the important concept of public-key cryptography. We examine the following topics:

• ■   Managing and using secret keys

• ■   Wrapping techniques for secret keys

• ■   Detecting errors and protecting file integrity

• ■   Public-key cryptography and, briefly, quantum cryptography

• ■   Public-key techniques for signing data and wrapping keys

• ■   Public-key certificates