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Information about Public Key generation

Public Key generation is the process where random numbers are found, and through a number of calculations are converted into a private key and a public key. This process can be time consuming on older PCs for the largest keys (2048 bits). That this process might lock up your computer while the keys are generated if you have an older system, and you will not be able to use it while the generation is going on. (Note: the generation takes place on your computer, no other computer is involved in the generation of the key).

The number of bits in the key is selected by you in the form presented by the Certificate Authority.

After the keys are generated, the keys will be inserted into your protected database. You may, depending on your settings, be asked for your security password.

Next, the public key and other necessary data are transmitted to the Certificate Authority. (Note that neither your private key nor your security password are transmitted.) The CA will then perform a number of controls on your information. You may have to give them extra information offline.

When all controls are finished and passed, the certificate will be issued, and you will be informed how to get it by the CA. In some cases a certificate is issued directly in responce to your submission, in which case you will go direcly on to installing your certificate in the personal database.

The public key is then sent to the Certificate Authority with the certificate request for signing.

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