PGP Encryption

PGP encryption allows users to encrypt, or code, information.

Computer users may wish data they use or send to be encrypted. Encryption is a way of coding information so it cannot be read without a key, or knowledge of the code. PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) encryption is one method of coding information.

Definition

PGP encryption is computer program that enables both data encryption, or coding, and data decryption, or decoding. PGP encryption is often use to encode and decode e-mails for increased e-mail communication security.

Process

PGP encrypts data using public encryption keys. Public encryption keys involve a two-part procedure. A mathematically-based formula called an asymmetric key algorithm is used to produce a mathematically related pair of keys. One is a secret key, known only to the individual or individuals possessing the confidential information. The other is the public key. The secret key uses a unique digital signature to authenticate and protect a coded message that is stored with the key. The public key must be used to decrypt this message. The public key may also encrypt a message, which must then be decoded via the private key.

Fun Fact

PGP encryption was invented in 1991 by Philip Zimmermann.

References

• PCmag.com: Definition of: PGP
• "Cryptography and Public Key Infrastructure on the Internet"; Klaus Schmeh; 2003

Resources

• "Public-Key Cryptography"; Arto Salomaa; 2010