Data can pass through many networks and systems before it reaches its destination. Securing data and ensuring the authenticity of the sender behind the data are essential. This is where public key infrastructure comes into play. PKI is a collection of systems and procedures that enables PKI certificates, also known as digital certificates. These certificates are electronic documents, which, via the underlying PKI that binds the public key in a key pair to its entity, verify the authenticity of the entity. The digital world's equivalent of a passport or driver's license, a PKI certificate also enables digital signatures and authentication mechanisms, such as two-factor authentication (2FA).
