Private key infrastructure: balancing computer transmission privacy with changing technology and security demands

The purpose of this study is to explore the emerging technology called Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) that is used to secure electronic transmissions over the Internet. PKI technology will enable users in the corporate, government, and consumer sectors to take advantage of high Internet speeds and verification abilities, while at the same time guarding against tampering and interruption. The use and development of PKI will have important legal, economic, and security implications. This paper explores the pros and cons of this new technology, develops a framework for the evaluation and implementation of PKI, and finally presents case studies of PKI implementation.